The Society of Community Health Technologists and Scientists of Nigeria has recently addressed growing concerns about the equivalence of National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) qualifications with Junior Community Health Extension Worker (JCHEW) and Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW) certifications. This issue has sparked significant debate within Nigeria's healthcare education system.

Key Concerns Raised by the Society

Accreditation Authority

• The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) remains the sole accrediting body for ND/HND programs.
• Questions have been raised about when and how any Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was established between stakeholders to equate these qualifications.

Training Standards

• Who is truly qualified to train ND and HND students in community health?
• Where do these programs fit within Nigeria's established healthcare workforce structure?

Transparency Issues

• The Society demands clarity: "Let them produce the MOU for public scrutiny to understand its terms."
• No prior consultation occurred with the Society regarding this equivalence declaration.

Historical Context

• Why were ND/HND programs initially discouraged if they’re now being recognized?
• What happens to institutions that have historically run these programs separately?

Critical Questions for Stakeholders

• Why were trained professionals from these programs previously rejected?
• Is there proper harmonization between academic qualifications and national health worker cadres?
• Who ultimately governs ND/HND standards in community health education?

The Society’s Position

• While not opposing the equivalence in principle, the Society emphasizes:
• The need for clear guidelines and collaboration in policy-making.
• Concerns about unilateral decisions affecting accreditation and professional standards.
• A call for wisdom among provosts and educators to navigate these changes carefully.

Kali note

This developing situation highlights the importance of transparency and inclusive dialogue in Nigeria’s health education reforms. For updates, contact the Society’s leadership:

• President: Afraim Audu Anja – 08065575258
• Trustees: Dr. Yusuf Yakubu Arigassiyu (Chairman), Dr. David Awoleye Olusegun, and others listed in the document.

Note: This post synthesizes official Society communications for public awareness. Always verify details with primary sources.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has officially released deployment details for 2025 Batch A Stream 1 prospective corps members (PCMs). If you’re among those preparing for the mandatory one-year service, here’s what you need to know:

Important Updates for PCMs

✅ Call-Up Letters Now Available – PCMs can print their call-up letters via the official NYSC portal: https://portal.nysc.org.ng/nysc1.

✅ Mandatory Addendum Form – NYSC requires all PCMs to print, sign, and submit the Addendum form during camp registration.

✅ Alternative Camp Locations

Some PCMs deployed to Abuja (FCT) will have their orientation in Nasarawa or Kaduna camps.

Some PCMs posted to Lagos may be assigned to Ogun, Ondo, or Osun camps.

✅ Travel Advisory – NYSC strongly advises PCMs against night travel to orientation camps for safety reasons.

Orientation Course Schedule

The 2025 Batch A Stream 1 orientation exercise is set to commence soon. Ensure you:

• ✔ Confirm your camp location early.
• ✔ Prepare all required documents (call-up letter, Addendum form, credentials, etc.).
• ✔ Arrive at camp on time to avoid complications.

Stay Informed

For real-time updates, follow NYSC’s official channels and check the portal regularly.

? Share this with fellow PCMs to keep everyone informed!

In a significant development that reshapes the landscape of Community Health education in Nigeria, the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria (CHPRBN) has officially aligned the JCHEW and CHEW qualifications with the National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) levels respectively. This alignment comes with a directive for all institutions to integrate NBTE (National Board for Technical Education) accreditation standards before the end of December 2025.

Understanding the Change

According to the official circular released on April 11th, 2025, this move is part of a broader reform to standardize community health training across the country and ensure smooth academic progression and recognition of qualifications. In simple terms:

JCHEW (Junior Community Health Extension Worker) is now considered equivalent to a National Diploma (ND).

CHEW (Community Health Extension Worker) is now recognized as equivalent to a Higher National Diploma (HND).

This means graduates of these programs will now have easier access to university programs via Direct Entry, paving the way for broader career opportunities.

Why This Matters

• For students, this change is a major win. It ensures:
• National recognition of their training credentials.
• Eligibility for Direct Entry admissions into universities.
• Greater employment opportunities both in public and private sectors.
• Alignment with modern education policies and frameworks.

For institutions, however, it’s a call to action. Only NBTE-accredited schools will be eligible to enroll students into the new diploma-based system. Those that fail to comply by the December 31st, 2025 deadline risk losing CHPRBN support for program indexing, examinations, or recognition.

What Schools Must Do

Institutions must:

Begin or complete NBTE accreditation for their JCHEW and CHEW programs.

Upload graduate records to the JAMB portal for direct entry processing.

Adhere strictly to NBTE-recommended student intake limits.

The CHPRBN has emphasized that this directive is final and non-compliance will mean exclusion from national educational recognition frameworks.

Final Thoughts

This reform isn’t just about academic titles – it's about transforming the quality and recognition of community health education in Nigeria. If you're a student, this opens doors. If you're an administrator, it's time to act.

… as WASSCE takes place between

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria, has announced the introduction of computer-based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for school candidates, reaffirming its preparedness and readiness for the conduct of the examination across the country.

Amos Dangut, head of the Nigeria National Office of WAEC, made this known at a media briefing on the conduct of the WASSCE for school candidates, 2025 held on Thursday, April 17, at the council’s national office in Yaba-Lagos.

“As an organisation that believes in the use of modern Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to solve myriads of problems as well as improve service delivery to the Nigerian child, the council has introduced its maiden computer-based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for school candidates.

“It will interest you to know that from this year, two candidates will not have the same questions on each number. We have adopted this innovation for some of the WASSCE codes. This initiative is part of the paradigm shift in the education sector, particularly, the adoption of current test administration techniques geared towards upholding the academic and moral integrity of the National Policy on Education and in line with the vision of the Federal Ministry of Education,” he said.

Dangut further explained that the WASSCE for school candidates, 2025 will take place between Thursday, April 24 and Friday, June 20, in Nigeria, spanning eight weeks and one day.

Speaking on the number of entries for the examination, he said that a total of 1,973,253 candidates from 23,554 schools have presented candidates for the examination.

Of this number, Dangut revealed that 979,228 candidates are males, amounting to 49.63 percent, while 994,025 candidates are females, which is 50.37 percent of the total candidature.

“The statistics show a further increase in the number of females and males, respectively, compared to last year. However, on the roll, the candidacy for this year increased by 158,627.

The candidates would be examined in 74 subjects, made up of 196 papers. About 26,000 practising senior secondary school teachers, nominated by various ministries of education, would be participating in the examination as supervisors,” he said.

Moreover, Dangut emphasized that the council is not ignorance of the level of insecurity in the country. Hence, WAEC is collaborating with the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies to provide adequate security to ensure the smooth and hitch-free conduct of the examination.

“For instance, in a particular geopolitical zone, last year, during the conduct of the WASSCE for school candidates, 2024, there was a threat to a particular subject, but everything was later brought under control. “Conducting examinations in such situations have been challenging though surmounted. The council has continued to partner with the Nigeria Police Force through the Inspector General of Police and the various state governments to provide adequate security to ensure the smooth and hitch-free conduct of the examination,” he explained.

Besides, he reiterated that WAEC has zero tolerance for examination malpractice, stressing that the council has sanctioned more than 700 schools for misconducts.

The council decisively deals with examination malpractice of any kind. The penalties for involvement in examination malpractice will always, without compromise, be meted out to erring candidates, supervisors, and schools, among others, as would be approved by the Nigeria Examinations Committee (NEC), which is the highest decision-making organ of the council that sits on examination matters in Nigeria.

“The council, on its part, has rolled out several awareness campaigns and organised seminars for school proprietors, principals, students and other key stakeholders through its branch and zonal offices nationwide to sensitize them on the effects of this evil,” he noted.

He warned all operators of rogue websites that WAEC will not condone their heinous acts during the conduct of this examination.

“Parents are hereby cautioned to desist from patronising these evildoers who are hell-bent on frustrating the efforts of WAEC. They should have nothing to do with them, as that would only lead to the destruction of their children’s destiny,” he said.

As the death toll from the Lassa Fever outbreak continues to increase across the country, Sandra Victor-Gwafan, co-founder, CEO of DeBranch Farmers and public health expert, urged farmers and store owners to avoid drying grains on the ground and regularly clean the grain stores to get rid of rats.

In a chat ,Victor-Gwafan expressed deep concern over the rising death toll of the deadly disease and, therefore, called for more action by both private and government organisations, including faith-based organisations, to holistically create awareness of the disease and its preventive measures and minimise the impact.

She said: “I see how Lassa fever is hurting families, especially in rural areas where people don’t always have quick access to healthcare. The numbers are increasing, and behind every case is a person — a farmer, a parent, a child. It is not just a health issue; it affects how people work, what they eat, and how they live. We cannot afford to ignore it.

“One of the simplest and most effective things we can do is to store food properly. At Debranch Farmers, we always encourage people to use tightly sealed containers; plastic or metal works well and keeps food off the ground.

“Grains and other dry food should be dried on clean surfaces, never bare soil. Clean storage areas, cover your food and keep the space free from leftovers or waste that attract rats.

“My advice is clear: stay clean, stay aware. Farmers need to stop drying grains on the ground and clean their storage spaces regularly. Store owners should check their warehouses often, seal holes, and use rodent-proof containers. If we take a little more time to store food properly and keep our surroundings clean, we can reduce the risk by a lot. At Debranch, we are already teaching these practices to our farmers, and it’s making a difference.”

However, she said the preventive measures that farmers, store owners, and Nigerians, in general, should take care of to ensure good hygiene practices.

“Prevention is all about awareness and good hygiene. Keep your environment clean. Don’t leave food uncovered. Wash your hands regularly, especially before cooking or eating.

“And if someone feels sick, don’t wait, get medical help early. At Debranch Farmers, we are working to make sure our farmers and their families understand these things. A little effort now can save lives later”, she added.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the results of the 2025 Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination conducted on Thursday, April 10.

JAMB disclosed this in a statement on Sunday by its spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, noting that candidates can check their results by sending “MOCKRESULT” via SMS to either 55019 or 66019 using the phone number they registered with for the examination.

According to the board, the mock UTME is optional and aims to test its yearly innovations while also giving candidates an opportunity to experience the computer-based test environment ahead of the main examination.

The statement read, “A total of 200,115 candidates initially expressed interest in participating; however, two candidates later withdrew, resulting in 200,113 registered candidates.

Of those registered, 73,844 candidates were absent on the day of the examination, and 88 candidates failed the biometric verification screening.

“Consequently, 126,181 candidates successfully sat for the examination, and results for 115,735 of these candidates are now available for viewing. Additionally, 10,446 results are still being processed and will be released soon.”

JAMB also acknowledged delays faced by some candidates during the mock exam and expressed regret over the inconvenience.

It explained that the disruptions were due to new features introduced to improve the upcoming main UTME.

The board urged candidates to continue supporting its efforts, adding that the mock exam remains a key part of its strategy to enhance the UTME process and better prepare candidates.

“The mock examination serves as a trial version of the UTME, allowing the Board to test new innovations while helping candidates familiarise themselves with the CBT environment.

“Over the years, this initiative has successfully achieved its objectives, addressing noted lapses and equipping candidates with valuable experience for the main examination,” the statement added.

According to UNICEF, 500 teachers are targeted in the first phase of the project which began with 100 teachers in Ohafia Local Government Area.

Addressing the trainees during a two-day workshop at Enuda Primary School Abiriba, Ohafia LGA, Education Specialist, UNICEF Enugu Field Office, Dr Agatha Nzeribe, said the aim of the training was to expose teachers to the Nigeria Learning Passport (NLP) – a digital platform developed to mitigate the challenge of insufficient instructional materials.

She explained that NLP enables teachers to gain free online access to relevant materials needed to effectively impart knowledge.

“Teachers and students using the platform can have access to developed lesson notes on different topics”, she said, adding that NLP came into focus during the COVID-19 era.

She further explained that the training was aimed at teaching teachers to adopt a blended learning approach that would help scale up their abilities for better results.

The UNICEF Education Specialist further said that the training was part of efforts to prepare Abia teachers and other education stakeholders ahead of the  Global Partnership for Education GPE System Transformation Grant, STG, fund disbursement recently approved for the state.

She disclosed that $7 million US Dollars had been approved for the state, adding that capacity has to be built for teachers before the up-take of the largesse.

GPE is a World Bank-hosted multi-stakeholder partnership that aims to strengthen global education.

The UNICEF Education Specialist who disclosed that the current training was bankrolled by “IHS Towers”, said more teachers in other LGAs would also benefit from the project.

“This is UNICEF support for Abia and we got it from IHS Towers  for the implementation of NLP activities “, she said.

One of the facilitators and UNICEF Desk Officer, Enugu SUBEB, Mr Benjamin Ugwuanyi, said the need for digital competence among teachers in a technology-driven society, necessitated the workshop.

He said:” There has been a paradigm shift in the way we teach in our classrooms. We are in a technology-driven era, and we have to carry teachers along.

“This is a digital learning platform for pupils in the classroom, for teachers that teach them, and even for parents and anybody who wishes to learn new things using the platform”.

Digitally driven financial institution VFD Microfinance Bank has returned to the path of profitability in the 2024 financial year as it recorded N366.6m profit after tax from the N333m loss it had suffered in the previous year.

The audited results of the bank were revealed at its third Annual General Meeting, which was held on Thursday under the theme ‘Banking with Purpose, Delivering with Impact’, a statement from the bank indicated.

At the AGM, the board and management of the bank acknowledged the significant macroeconomic headwinds that characterised 2023, including high inflation, currency depreciation, and sluggish GDP growth, which impacted the financial services sector. While VFD Microfinance Bank reported a loss of N333.3m for the 2023 financial year, the leadership emphasised that this period served as a critical inflection point, leading to strategic adjustments and a strong turnaround in the subsequent year.

Speaking on the floor of the AGM, the Board Chairman, Collins Chikeluba, said, “The year under review was one of unprecedented macroeconomic and operational challenges. While the loss in 2023 was disappointing, it reflects both the external constraints and the internal adjustments we undertook. Importantly, our 2024 audited financials reflect a positive turnaround, with significant revenue growth and a return to profitability. We are laying a solid foundation for sustainable profitability and future dividend payouts, driven by our focus on deepening financial inclusion and leveraging technology.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Rotimi Awofisibe, commented, “The year 2023 was a testing period, but it sharpened our strategic clarity and operational discipline. Despite the recorded loss, we took decisive steps to reposition the bank, and the indicators from our 2024 performance, including a 39.8% revenue growth and a profit of N366.6 million, demonstrate the effectiveness of these actions.

We remain focused on enhancing our digital footprint, scaling our customer base, and maintaining financial discipline to deliver long-term value to all our stakeholders.”

In the year under review, VFD Microfinance Bank recorded a revenue growth of 39.8 per cent, increasing from N3.2bn in 2023 to N4.5bn in 2024.

At the AGM, the bank underscored its commitment to driving financial inclusion through digital innovation, tailored SME solutions, and enhanced customer engagement. The bank also highlighted its strengthened risk management framework and strategic partnerships to expand its reach and improve service delivery.

Speaking on the operational improvements, Chief Operating Officer Theodore Asamoah noted, “Our team has worked diligently to optimise our operations and enhance efficiency. The significant revenue growth and return to profitability in 2024 are a testament to our collective efforts and the resilience of our business model. We remain committed to leveraging technology and innovation to improve our service delivery and expand our reach, ensuring we continue to deliver with impact.”

VFD Microfinance Bank reiterated its commitment to its strategic objectives of deepening financial inclusion, leveraging technology for scalability, and delivering sustainable value to its stakeholders. Although no dividend was declared for the period under review, the bank remains optimistic about its prospects for future profitability and sustained value creation.

Dangote Refinery has started selling petrol at N865 per liter, a N50 increase from its previous price of N815 per liter.

This move comes after the suspension of the Naira for crude deal with the federal government.

Oil marketers, including MRS, have begun lifting petrol from the refinery, which has a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day

The refinery had previously reduced its price to N815 per liter, its third reduction in 2025.

Despite the fall in crude oil prices to $59 per barrel, yesterday, the cost of refining remains high due to increased costs of importing crude oil in dollars.

Experts had expected lower petrol prices following the decline in crude oil prices, but the high refining costs have offset the benefits.

Table of contents [hide]

• Logistics & Inventory Controller
• Logistics Excellence Lead
• Method Of Application
• Deadline: April 9, 2025

Unilever Plc –  We create, market and distribute the products that people choose to feed their families and keep themselves and their homes clean and fresh.

Our brands are trusted everywhere and, by listening to the people who buy them, we’ve grown into one of the world’s most successful consumer goods companies.

Applications are invited from interested and qualified candidates to apply for the job openings at Unilever Nigeria Plc.

Logistics & Inventory Controller

Job Specifications:

• Full Time
• Required Qualifications: BA/BSC/HND 
• Location: Ogun | Nigeria. 
• Category: Logistics Jobs

Job Description:

• Unilever is the place where you can bring your purpose to life with the work that you do – creating a better business and a better world. If you are passionate about optimizing warehousing, inbound and outbound secondary transportation, and co-packing operations to ensure the efficient and accurate handling and delivery of customer orders, achieving high CCFOT at optimal costs, and adhering to Unilever’s quality, environmental safety, and health standards, then this role is perfect for you!

What Will Your Main Responsibilities Be

• Accountable for management of all transport operations and tactical direction to the transport suppliers to enable the delivery of significant savings in transport spend for the business.
• To manage both the Primary and  secondary transport strategy for the Logistics function for efficient service delivery to both internal and external stakeholders and ensuring on time in full delivery to customers.
• Management of all warehouse operations.

Transport:

• Design and drive an efficient and effective Transport delivery scheme by having optimal balance of customer service and transport costs in place. 
• Drive and own key change and integration initiatives in transportation to deliver integrated and cost-effective transport solutions within the business transport network.
• Contribute to the development of the end-to-end supply chain strategy for logistics by driving Transport integration of suppliers, contracts, performance and processes.
• Develop and introduce standardized supplier metrics for KPIs for transport performance and appropriate behaviors to obtain unified performance measures and consistent high level of service.
• Manage all the Third-Party Logistics (3PL) service providers to ensure excellent service quality and delivery performance as per agreed service level within optimal costs.
• Monitor and report performance of the 3PL service providers by performing supplier evaluations and use the information for benchmarking the logistics process against other organizations to improve performance.
• Maintain excellent business relationship with the key external stakeholders including Logistics fleet contractors etc. to ensure smooth and efficient logistics operations and services.
• Manage innovations to foster continuous improvement and change through teamwork, partnership and collaboration initiatives.
• Lead Logistics reviews and governance processes for the 3PL Suppliers to improve the logistics network and cost base.
• Drive projects and continuous improvement initiatives to achieve logistics and productivity cost savings
• Ensure appropriate process controls and documentation are always in place and adhered to.
• Perform all company business in accordance with regulations, company policies and procedures and demonstrate high ethical and professional standards with business contacts in order to maintain excellent reputations within the business community in line with the Company’s Code of Business Principles.

Warehousing

• Conduct periodic stock count and reconcile physical, 3PL and UL system stocks to ensure stock accuracy.
• Monitor and organize FIFO applications in the warehouse operations.
• Organize collection of pallets from customers and ensure pallet supply is as per production plan.
• Assign reason codes for stock returns and rejections at the time of receiving goods returns. 
• Coordinate shipment of finished goods from the factories to the warehouse.
• Ensure that site contingency plan is live and maintained.

Experiences & Qualifications

• University Degree, Supply chain (APICS etc) qualification is an added
• 3-5 Years in Supply Chain operations 
• Experience in managing 3PLs.
• Planning experience
• Exposure to Order to Cash, Procure to pay cycle
• Budgeting & Planning
• Master of Business Administration; Logistics Degree
• Special studies in Supply Chain related subjects.
• FMCG experience

Key Interfaces:

• Customer Service / Demand Planning
• Sourcing Units and Export / Import
• Accounting / Finance
• Supply Management
• Quality Assurance
• Regional CSE Teams

External: 

• Regional and local 3PL 

Skills:

• Business Acumen: Ability to analyze data, and supplier performance metrics, to make informed decisions and optimize procurement processes.
• Supply Chain Management, inventory management and material requirements planning: Understanding of supply chain principles and practices, including inventory management, procurement strategies, and logistics coordination.
• Self-Mastery: Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, develop proactive engagement with Logistics partners and provide clear instructions and updates regarding material requirements. Ability to prioritize effectively, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Detail oriented: Thoroughness and accuracy in Supplier management.

Leadership:

• You are energized by delivering fantastic results. You are an example to others – both your results and your resilience. You are constantly on the lookout for better ways to do things, engaging and collaborating with others along the way.
• As an individual you are the one responsible for your own wellbeing and delivering high standards of work. You must also focus on the Consumer and what they need. You are humble and have your head up, looking around to interpret evidence and data smartly, spot issues and opportunities to make things better.

Critical SOL (Standards of Leadership) Behaviors:

• Talent catalyst:  Inspire people to grow with support and honesty.
• Personal mastery: Sets high standards for themselves. Actively builds own wellbeing and resilience.
• Agility: Explores the world around them, continually learning and developing their skills. Comfortable working in conditions of ambiguity and learning through change.
• Consumer & customer Love: Whatever their role, always seek to delight our consumers, and partners, our customers better than anyone else.
• Passion for high performance: Takes personal responsibility and accountability for execution and results. Has an owner’s mindset, using data and insight to make decisions.
• Purposeful Impact: Care deeply about delivering positive impact for the business, people and planet.

Logistics Excellence Lead

Job Specifications:

• Full Time
• Required Qualifications: BA/BSC/HND 
• Location: Lagos| Nigeria. 
• Category: Logistics Jobs

Job Description:

• Unilever is the place where you can bring your purpose to life with the work that you do – creating a better business and a better world. 
• The Logistics Excellence lead is responsible for deploying Logistics excellence program in West Africa. If you are into deploying best practices and continuous improvement in the Logistics space,  then this role is just for you!

What Will Your Main Responsibilities Be
Logistics Excellence

• Standardized Deep Dive and Benchmarking of Logistics Operation ( DCs and Transport )
• Leads the evaluation of new best practices (Infrastructure, Processes and Operations  and the implementation of approved best practices in line with WCL
•  Drive operational excellence in warehousing operations exploiting and optimizing Unilever’s use of warehouse design and operation to improve customer service, cost and carbon ( DC Operational Excellence and New DC Development )
• Lead community of practice for improvement processes and tools
•  Partner with Procurement in Supplier performance management
• Partner with CSE on Go to Market strategy for distribution
• Drives the Savings program for the MCO  and ensures savings targets are met
• Drives MCO Logistics Transformation and CI project
• Drive and maintain the MCO  Cost to Serve Model
• Reviews KPI performance of the MCO comparing with  the peers in the same archetype
• Drives the MCO CAPEX Programme ensuring forecasting is accurate and projects delivered OTIF
• Establishes and maintains the MCO 3 year  Logistics Master Plan
• Reduce Warehouse and Transport related CCFOT losses thru defining & implementing Warehouse transition management processes and implementing best-in-class warehouse management processes & tools Capability development (Training, Coaching with standard License to Operate
• Drive Sustainability  through identifying and implementing projects within area of control
• Drive CO2 reduction initiative in Warehouse & Transportation activities & reduce CO2 footprint by 60% by 2030 DRP
• Accountable for management of all Primary  transport operations and tactical direction to the transport suppliers to enable the delivery of significant savings in transport spend for the business
• Design and drive an efficient and effective Transport delivery scheme by having optimal balance of customer service and transport costs in place. 
• To manage the Primary transport strategy for the Logistics function for efficient service delivery to both internal and external stakeholders and ensuring on time in full delivery to customers

What You Will Need To Succeed

Experiences , Qualifications & Skills:

• Has a Degree or equivalent
• Has proven leadership experience of running MCO  programs in Logistics
• Has at least 3 years of Logistics Operations experience
• Experience in Distribution planning, Regional 3PL management, WMS implementation, Warehouse transition would be an advantage.
• Has strong interpersonal skills: can coach, motivate, and convince stakeholders from different levels and markets by using the right structure, style and level of detail
• Has understanding of performance drivers and how to unlock these
• Has commercial acumen.

Leadership:

• You are energized by delivering fantastic results. You are an example to others – both your results and your resilience. You are constantly on the lookout for better ways to do things, engaging and collaborating with others along the way.
• As an individual you are the one responsible for your own wellbeing and delivering high standards of work. You must also focus on the Consumer and what they need. You are humble and have your head up, looking around to interpret evidence and data smartly, spot issues and opportunities to make things better.

Critical SOL (Standards of Leadership) Behaviors

• Passion for high performance: Takes personal responsibility and accountability for execution and results. Has an owner’s mindset, using data and insight to make decisions.
• Personal mastery: Sets high standards for themselves. Actively builds own wellbeing and resilience.
• Consumer Love: Whatever their role, always looks for better ways to serve consumers. Invests time inside and outside to understand the needs of consumers.
• Purpose & service: Has humility, understanding that leadership is service to others, inside and outside Unilever.
• AGILITY: Explores the world around them, continually learning and developing their skills.

Method Of Application

Interested and qualified candidates should apply by clicking the buttons below to start their application.

APPLY HERE: Logistics & Inventory Controller

APPLY HERE: Logistics Excellence Lead

Deadline: April 9, 2025

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have arrested a 75-year-old grandfather, Nna Felix, and two brothers, John Abugu, 43, and Kenneth Abugu, 31, in separate drug trafficking incidents across the country as the agency intensified its crackdown on illicit drug activities.

The Abugu brothers were arrested on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, while attempting to board a flight to India.

The NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Sunday, said the suspects were caught with five kilograms of cocaine concealed within the walls of their suitcases.

He said they had claimed to be travelling for medical treatment but were intercepted following credible intelligence

Babafemi said, “The two brothers were arrested at the Lagos airport on Thursday, 3rd April 2025, following proactive processing of credible intelligence. They claimed they were travelling to India for medical treatment, but when their suitcases were thoroughly searched by NDLEA officers, whitish powdery substances later confirmed to be cocaine were discovered on the walls of their bags.”

On the same day at the Lagos airport, Babafemi said operatives intercepted a 20-year-old Ghanaian-British national, Parker Darren Hazekia Osei, with 36 parcels of Loud—a potent strain of cannabis—packed in a giant travel bag weighing 19.40 kilograms.

He said the suspect, who identified himself as a computer science student at East London University, reportedly flew in from Bangkok, Thailand, via Ethiopian Airlines and admitted to picking up the consignment in Bangkok for delivery in Nigeria.

In another operation, Babafemi said NDLEA officers in Abia State arrested 75-year-old grandfather Nna Felix on Saturday, April 5, with 1.6kg of skunk, a strain of cannabis, during a raid in Umunteke Asa, Ukwa West Local Government Area.

In a separate bust in Aba, 21-year-old David Chinemerem was caught with 2,050 ampoules of pentazocine on April 1. The agency also recorded major seizures and arrests in Kogi, Yobe, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory.

In Kogi, he said a 33-year-old woman, Ngozi Ogili, was apprehended along the Okene-Lokoja highway while transporting 3kg of methamphetamine from Lagos to Abuja. Follow-up operations led to the recovery of additional illicit substances, including Loud and Colorado.

In Yobe State, Babafemi said operatives arrested Abdullahi Adamu with 381 bottles of codeine syrup and 108 tablets of tramadol along the Potiskum-Damaturu road on April 5.

He also said a series of coordinated raids in Anambra led to the arrest of multiple suspects, including Obinna Sunday and Ugochukwu Ojalanonye, and the seizure of 195,000 pills of tramadol, 4.2kg of codeine syrup, and 5.4kg of pentazocine.

“In the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, NDLEA operatives on Thursday, 3rd April, arrested 51-year-old Sunday Ayogu with 25kg skunk and 90.4g of methamphetamine during a raid operation at Wuse market in Abuja, while two ladies, Faith Etim, 64, and Victoria Asuquo Etim, 40, were nabbed on Friday, April 4, when NDLEA operatives supported by men of the Nigerian Army raided cannabis plantations in Esuk-Odot community, Odukpani LGA of Cross River State, where 250,000 kilograms of the psychoactive plant were destroyed on over 100 hectares of farmland,” the statement added.

Applications for the 2025 NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship are now open to Young Nigerians to study in any foreign universities of their choice.

The NDDC Scholarship is fully funded covering the full fees of tuition, flight, visa, accommodation, and living expenses for all selected candidates. The exchange rate of the country’s currency to the foreign instituion’s will also be considered while awarding the scholarship.

In this post, we have highlighted the scholarship details, its eligibility criteria, benefits, duration, and its simplified application procedure for interested candidates.

NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship Summary

• Host: Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) 
• Study Abroad: Study in USA | Study in Canada | Study in UK | Study in Europe | Study in Asia | Study in Australia | Study in Africa
• Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships 
• Eligible Countries: Nigeria
• Reward: Full Scholarship | Travel Costs | Living Expenses
• Deadline: April 21, 2025

NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship Details:

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is offering a foreign post graduate scholarship program as part of its human resource development initiatives to give Niger Deltans the training and skills they need to effectively participate in the current administration’s local content program and compete internationally in a variety of professional disciplines.

The NDDC Scholarship is for candidates who meet the requirements and have earned relevant Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees from reputable universities in one of the following professional disciplines:

• Agricultural Sciences
• Engineering
• Environmental Sciences
• Geosciences
• Information Technology
• Law
• Management Sciences
• Medicine
• Architecture
• Hospitality Management

NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship Requirements:

To be considered for the NDDC Scholarship, you must:

• Be from the Niger Delta Region
• Have completed the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)
• Have First Degree with minimum of 2nd Class-Lower division for those wishing to undertake a Master’s Programme
• Not belong to any cult group and must not have any criminal record
• Have gained admission for a Post Graduate Programme in any of the listed disciplines above, in a Foreign University

Benefits of NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship 2025

• Fully Funded Scholarship to study in any of the foreign universities with all expenses of tuition, travel, visa, stipends, and accommodation covered.

Required Documents for NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship 2025

To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;

• Application Form (to be completed online)
• Recent passport photograph
• Local Government Identification Letter
• Post Graduate admission letter from a recognized Oversea University. Relevant degrees from recognized Universities.
• WASSCE/NECO results
• NYSC Discharge/Exemption Certificate
• Guarantor’s written consent of good conduct of the applicant from any of the following persons from the applicant’s Community/Clan
• Member of National Assembly/State House of Assembly
• Chairman of LGA
• First Class Traditional ruler
• High Court Judge

How To Apply for NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship 2025 (Step-by-Step)

In order to successfully submit your application for the NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship, interested and qualified applicants should follow the steps below;

• Click on the button below to visit the NDDC’s application webpage.
• Click on View Details (of the NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship)
• Proceed to submit an online application via the Commission’s Website by clicking “APPLY NOW”
• Shortlisted candidates will undergo a computer-based test conducted by our consultants in Rivers State.
• Minimum Test Score: Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 70% in the test to proceed to the next stage.
• Further Shortlisting: Candidates who successfully pass the test will be further shortlisted.
• Final Verification: The final verification of the candidates will be done through the Local Government Area (LGA) and Community Development Committee (CDC).
• Preferences will be given to candidates from Oil Producing Host/Communities/Local Government Areas as long as candidates meet the approved cut off mark.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: April 21, 2025

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has dismissed as false a circulating report claiming that it has introduced new N5,000 and N10,000 banknotes to enhance cash transactions.

In a post on its official X handle, formerly Twitter, the apex bank said, “The content is not from the Central Bank of Nigeria. Kindly note that the official website of the CBN is cbn.gov.ng.”

A statement from the CBN’s communications department further clarified, “The only official sources for releasing statements to the media are our website or statements from our department. There is also no Deputy Governor by such name. We are investigating the source of this fake content.”

The report quoted one Deputy CBN Governor, Ibrahim Tahir Jr., the move is aimed at reducing cash-handling costs and providing Nigerians with more efficient means of conducting large transactions. “The introduction of these new high-value denominations aligns with global best practices and will enhance economic activities while reducing the stress associated with carrying large amounts of cash,” the Governor stated. The CBN said there is no such name in its leadership.

The new N5,000 note will feature the portrait of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, while the N10,000 note will showcase Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, both in recognition of their contributions to Nigeria’s development. Additionally, the new notes will incorporate enhanced security features, including color-changing ink, holograms, and anti-counterfeiting technology, making them impossible to replicate,” the fake report stated.

The fake report also said, the nationwide rollout will begin on May 1, 2025, with commercial banks instructed to start issuing the new notes via ATMs and over-the-counter transactions.

This was disclosed in a joint press statement on Friday by the Vaccine Alliance, Gavi, the World Health Organisation, and the United Nations Children’s Fund.

The statement noted that the first shipment of the vaccine doses would enable the launch of an outbreak response campaign targeting individuals aged one to 29 years, which is the most severely affected group.

“The campaign will initially launch in Kebbi and Sokoto states, with plans to expand to Yobe State as additional doses arrive in the country,” it added.

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the country has recorded a total of 807 suspected cases of cerebrospinal meningitis, and 74 deaths from 22 states as of March 26, 2025

The NCDC stated that the Case Fatality Rate was at 9.2 per cent as of March 26, 2025.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate said the arrival of the Men5CV vaccines was a crucial milestone in Nigeria’s response to the current meningitis outbreak.

He said, “It reflects our commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to protect the health and well-being of all Nigerians – especially our children and young people who are most vulnerable.

“Through the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the Sector-Wide Approach, we have prioritised epidemic preparedness and rapid response as part of our broader health security agenda. We are grateful for the support of Gavi, WHO, and UNICEF in enabling this swift deployment. Together, we are not only containing today’s outbreak but also laying the foundation to eliminate meningitis and strengthen routine immunisation for the future.”

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Nigeria has recorded a total of 807 suspected cases of cerebrospinal meningitis, and 74 deaths from 22 states as of March 26, 2025

The NCDC also stated that the Case Fatality Rate was at 9.2 per cent.

Meningitis is a serious infection of the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It is a devastating disease and remains a major public health challenge.

The disease can be caused by many different pathogens including bacteria, fungi or viruses, but the highest global burden is seen with bacterial meningitis, according to WHO.

UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, said every child deserved protection from life-threatening diseases like meningitis, saying that the arrival of the vaccine marked a critical step in stopping the current outbreak and safeguarding Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations – particularly children and young adults, who are at the highest risk.

“UNICEF is proud to support the government by ensuring rapid vaccine deployment, community engagement, and planning and implementation of the response, while working alongside Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, National Primary Health Care Development Agency and Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare to strengthen immunisation efforts in Nigeria,” Munduate stated.

WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr Walter Mulombo, said as Nigeria continues to combat the current meningitis outbreak, the arrival of the MenCV5 vaccine provided a much-needed boost to the response efforts.

“From research and development to delivery, the journey of the MenCV5 vaccine to Nigeria has been a collaborative effort between the Nigerian government, the WHO, Gavi, and other dedicated partners. While we address the ongoing outbreak, the MenCV5 vaccine is also critical to Nigeria’s long-term health security. It will help prevent future outbreaks and safeguard future generations; we are committed to supporting Nigeria at every step,” he stated.

Huawei Nigeria Digital Power has introduced an innovative product, the LUNA2000-215 Series, the world’s first hybrid air and liquid cooling commercial and industrial energy storage solution.

The launch, which took place at an event attended by industry partners and key stakeholders from the C&I energy sector, marked a significant milestone in the region’s energy landscape.

In a statement shared Online on Saturday, the company highlighted the importance of this new technology in addressing critical energy challenges faced by businesses.

According to the statement, the FusionSolar C&I LUNA2000-215-2S10, a key component of the LUNA2000-215 Series, advances the energy storage industry by emphasising system safety, refined management, and intelligent application .

This solution is set to enhance both the efficiency and reliability of businesses across Nigeria and beyond. In a promising start, 84 units of the newly launched series were ordered by five partners within Nigeria.

Huawei Nigeria Digital Power Business Department Director, Mr. Cruise Ni, emphasised the urgency of embracing a new era in the C&I sector. He outlined the necessity of rethinking partnerships with original equipment manufacturers and pointed to three primary drivers fueling the growth of the C&I sector in Africa: unreliable electricity supply, rising energy costs, and the falling prices of solar technology.

“The C&I ESS market in Nigeria is rapidly expanding, driven by high demand and compelling economic benefits. The LUNA2000-215-2S10 is engineered to address the unique challenges of this growing market. Huawei FusionSolar is proud to introduce the world’s first C&I ESS that utilizes smart air and liquid cooling systems, along with advanced safety, thermal management, and power supply technologies, to deliver industry-leading results,” he said.

He added, “An in-depth introduction to the LUNA2000-215 Series outlined four core values that set Huawei’s energy storage solutions apart: Proactive Safety, Premium Quality, Higher Profitability, and One-Fits-All. Proactive Safety is central, featuring Huawei’s innovative ‘Cell-to-Consumption (C2C) Dual-link Safety Architecture.’ This ensures comprehensive electrical and thermal safety, from the cell level to consumption, with rapid shutdown capabilities and robust fire suppression measures.

“Premium Quality is guaranteed through Huawei’s rigorous design, testing, and production processes, achieving a remarkable 99.999% inverter availability and the highest safety certifications. With Higher Profitability, Huawei’s advanced power supply architecture delivers the industry’s best round-trip efficiency of over 91.3%, optimizing energy management and prolonging battery life

Lastly, the One-Fits-All design offers flexible installation options, simplifying setup and reducing costs. Integrated digital tools enhance operational efficiency and revenue potential.”

The launch event also featured several testimonials from partners, including the Federal Fire Service.

The Head of Information Communication and Technology at the Federal Fire Service, Mr. Esan Oladimeji, delivered a presentation on solar safety.

He underscored the importance of selecting high-quality equipment, such as Huawei’s solutions, and ensuring proper outdoor installations to prevent potential risks.

Oladimeji emphasised the long-term development of the Nigerian photovoltaic market, stating, “Safety is the foundation of photovoltaic industry development. No safety, no business! We hope that the PV industry prioritizes industry safety and quality. Choose safety, reliability, and better-quality solar products!”

In addition to this, Rensource Energy, a key financing partner, introduced various financing solutions for the Nigerian PV market.

These included power purchase agreements, leasing, and other options.

They showcased practical examples of Huawei’s solutions and stressed the importance of selecting reliable brands with safe equipment and excellent after-sales service.

Powercell Limited, an EPC solutions partner, also shared insights into the successful implementation of Huawei solutions in the first batch of 14 green shopping malls and supermarkets in Nigeria. As a supplier of inverters and energy storage devices, Huawei’s localized services laid the groundwork for long-term reliability and secure, stable project operations.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that Nigeria is battling a meningitis outbreak that has led to 151 deaths and 1,826 suspected cases, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 8.3 percent. The outbreak, which has affected 23 states, is putting significant pressure on public health resources, particularly in northern Nigeria, where the majority of cases have been reported.

According to the Epidemiological Week 12 Report, which covers the period from March 17 to March 23, 2025, a total of 289 samples were collected from suspected cases, and 126 of these have been confirmed as positive, yielding a 44 percent positivity rate. Among the confirmed cases, the most prevalent strain is Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C (NmC), which accounts for 27 percent of cases, followed by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W (NmW) at 13.5 percent.

The outbreak predominantly affects children, with those in the 5-14 age group making up the highest proportion of both suspected and confirmed cases. Additionally, the outbreak shows a significant gender disparity, with 60 percent of the total suspected cases reported in males.

The situation is most severe in 10 states, with Kebbi and Sokoto being the hardest-hit, accounting for 94 percent of suspected cases. Gwandu LGA in Kebbi has reported the highest number of cases, with 313 suspected cases, followed by Tambuwal LGA in Sokoto with 155 cases.

In response to the growing crisis, the NCDC has stepped up surveillance, sample collection, and public awareness campaigns. Efforts to provide vaccinations and other interventions are being prioritized in high-risk states to curb the spread of the disease and prevent further fatalities.

Health authorities are urging Nigerians to seek immediate medical attention at the first signs of meningitis, including fever, headache, and neck stiffness, in order to reduce the risk of complications and death.

News reports that the alleged police officer, Hadaina Hussaini (Dan-Taki), reacting to the recent lynching of 16 travelers of northern extraction in Uromi Edo State, in a Facebook comment, threatened retaliatory attacks against Southerners living in northern Nigeria.

Dan-Taki vowed by Almighty God that northerners would take decisive action against southerners in their domain.

He wrote, “I swear to Almighty God, we must do something for you guys, have you forgotten all your brothers that are leaving here in the North make my word, after one week you shall see the result.”

Following persistent criticisms of his comment, Dan-Taki changed his first name and restricted access to his Facebook page, limiting users’ viewing of his posts and comments

Reacting in a statement on Friday, the Kaduna Police Command Spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, disclosed that Hussaini is neither a member of the Nigeria Police Force nor a personnel of Kaduna State Police Command.

The Command, however, admitted that he was a member of the Police Special Constabulary attached to Kaduna State Constabulary Office, but was dismissed from the voluntary outfit two years ago due to his questionable character.

The statement read: “The attention of Kaduna State Police Command has been drawn to a comment made on a Facebook book post credited to one Hadaina Hussaini (Dan-taki), which has been making rounds on various social media platforms with the caption “Kaduna Police Officer Threatens Retaliation Against Southerners in Uromi Killings”.

“To set the record straight, Hadian Hussaini is neither a member of the Nigeria Police Force nor a personnel of Kaduna State Police Command.

It is pertinent to note that his picture captured on Police Uniform as displayed on the Social Media, which is an improper dressing, is that of him when he was a member of the Police Special Constabulary attached to Kaduna State Constabulary Office, but was dismissed from the voluntary outfit two (2) years ago due to his questionable character.

“As such, members of the general public are advised to carefully observe the identity card attached to the uniform which contains the word ‘PSC/KD’ meaning Police Special Constabulary. Similarly, the pictures of him on uniform were posted on the Facebook platform two (2) years ago, prior to his dismissal.

“The Suspect has been arrested and will be charged to court upon the completion of preliminary investigations in accordance to extant laws.

The State Command however wishes to state categorically that, the Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined and regimented organization committed to upholding law and order, and would not condone any form of incitement, hate speech, or threat to the peace and harmony of our dear Country.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Rabi’u Muhammad psc,mni wishes to once-again call on members of the general public to remain calm and continue to report suspicious incidents of this nature to the Police.”

The Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa, has called for the extension of the mandatory National Youth Service Corps scheme from one to two years.

Alausa stated this on Friday when the Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja.

According to a statement posted on NYSC’s official Facebook page, the minister also called for the expansion of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Training Programme content for corps members.

“The minister also advocated for the extension of national service from one to two years, with the expansion of NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Training programme content for corp members ,the statement read

The minister also advocated for the deployment of more graduate teachers to serve in rural schools, saying this would fill the manpower gap in the schools.

He commended the management of NYSC for its proactive and digitalised efforts in the mobilisation process, aimed at curbing certificate racketeering involving some foreign-trained graduates within West Africa.

Alausa also hailed the scheme for resolving the lingering issue of OND part-time graduates with full-time HND who were previously exempted from National Service

Alausa stated further that efforts were ongoing in the ministry to digitise the verification of foreign-trained graduates of Nigerian origin, saying the Ministry and NYSC would further strengthen their alliance towards the improvement of education for national development.

“You have done so well as an organisation. Let NYSC give people more opportunities to become job creators that will meet the needs of the country,” he said.

Speaking earlier, the NYSC Director General, Brig-Gen. Nafiu lauded the ministry’s innovation and giant strides in the education sector.

He called for the establishment of a database for Nigerian youths going abroad to study for degree programmes, adding that this would help the government and other stakeholders in the education sector identify fake graduates.

“NYSC is ready to comply with policy guidelines as directed by the Federal Government. We are also trying to reform the Scheme to conform with the present national needs,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan, affirmed the Ministry’s readiness to work with NYSC more effectively towards uplifting the standard of education in the country

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) says it has sealed off 100 pharmaceutical stores and arrested seven vendors for various regulatory violations during an operation in Gombe State.

PCN Head of Enforcement, Dr Suleiman Chiroma, disclosed this while addressing newsmen in Gombe.

He said out of total 144 premises visited, 100 were found to be non-compliant and were sealed for various offences which include, non-renewal of license, operating illegal premises, clinical practice among others.

Dr Chiroma explained that the seven arrested vendors had unlawfully broken the official PCN seals placed on their respective premises, and would be subjected to thorough investigation and prosecution.

He added that the council would take all necessary measures to implement the National Drug Distribution Guidelines, which he said are aimed at sanitising the drug distribution system and curbing the sale of unregulated and substandard medicines.

He also urged pharmacy operators in the state to adhere strictly to regulatory standards by ensuring proper licensing and compliance with pharmaceutical laws to avoid legal consequences.

While reaffirming PCN’s commitment to ensure that practitioners are complying with pharmaceutical regulations in Nigeria, Chiroma warned that the council will not fold its arms to allow reckless attitude by unpatriotic medicine sellers.

The management of the Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, on Friday, confirmed that 75 students of the institution had benefitted from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.

The college’s provost, Gbonjubola Owolabi, announced this during a meeting with the management staff, held at the college premises, Eleyele in Ibadan.

Owolabi, in a statement on Friday by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade in Ibadan, the state capital, said, “This is to inform the college that we received the loan funds for 75 students yesterday (Thursday).”

She lauded the initiative, saying, “78 students applied, while 75 benefitted from the loan programme.

Our college is grateful to NELFUND for this support to our students. The College also congratulates these 75 students.

“This strategic effort aims to ensure that students who really need the funds can continue their education by lowering the burden of financial constraints.”

Owolabi said the loan beneficiaries would be invited to a meeting by the college for appropriate documentation of students who applied in the 2025/2026 session.

NELFUND has paid the full fees of about 96% of the students who applied for the loan. This is impressive,” she added.

She therefore implored other students to apply for the NELFUND loan, as this will ease their ongoing educational pursuit.

Amazon has released more details on Project Kuiper, its plan to establish a satellite internet service resembling Starlink.

The first launch of satellites for Amazon’s Kuiper project is set to ascend as soon as April 9, less than a week away.

27 satellites are planned to be deployed using an Atlas V rocket, which will blast off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

This is just the earliest beginnings of the system, which Amazon says will be made up of 3200 satellites in low-Earth orbit. And that’s just for the “first-generation” system that will provide home internet to, according to Amazon, “virtually any location on the planet”.

Amazon has more than 70 additional launches for Project Kuiper planned over the next few years, including sending satellites on rival SpaceX’s rockets.

We’ve designed some of the most advanced communications satellites ever built, and every launch is an opportunity to add more capacity and coverage to our network,” says Rajeev Badyal, Vice President of Project Kuiper.

This will be the first time we’ve flown our final satellite design and the first time we’ve deployed so many satellites at once.”

Despite being quite early on in establishing the satellite array required for a functional satellite internet system, Amazon expects to be able to start offering the service “later this year.”

Project Kuiper was established in 2019

Project Kuiper vs Starlink

Rival Starlink currently has more than 7000 satellites in low-Earth orbit, and future plans include expanding that array to a count of 34,400.

Starlink has also become the leading provider of space junk, with the company’s satellites falling out of orbit “almost every day” according to Space.com.

Satellite internet services like those of Starlink and Project Kuiper require a satellite receiver, which currently starts at £300 for Starlink models.

Starlink charges £75 a month for home internet, which can provide up to 220Mbps typical internet speeds, according to the company’s website.

Satellite internet can often be a workable solution for homes not covered by optical fibre or 4G/5G mobile internet.

The company has also supplied Ukraine with internet connectivity since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

“My Starlink system is the backbone of the Ukrainian army. Their entire front line would collapse if I turned it off,” SpaceX CEO Elon Musk claimed on X. He has since claimed he does not plan to deactivate Ukraine’s access to the service.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially refuted claims regarding the purported extension of the tenure of its Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, stating that no such directive has been issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the National Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, clarified that the extension of the Comptroller-General’s tenure falls within the discretion of the President, in accordance with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and other relevant public service regulations.

Maiwada emphasized that, as of now, the NCS has not received any official communication from the President regarding the extension.

“For the avoidance of doubt, appointments and tenure extensions for the position of Comptroller-General of Customs are made solely at the discretion of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and other relevant regulations governing public service appointments. As of this moment, no such directive has been communicated to the NCS by the appropriate authorities,” he said.

The statement further addressed reports circulating that claimed a release from the State House announcing the extension. According to NCS, this information is false and misleading.

Maiwada noted that the service had been made aware of the fake release and urged the public to disregard it.

The NCS reiterated its commitment to fulfilling its core duties, including trade facilitation, revenue generation, and border security.

The Matuak Giwa community in the Bondon District, Moro’a Chiefdom, in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State has been thrown into mourning as a lightning strike, on Sunday, killed a herder and 12 cows, PUNCH Metro has learnt.

The Village Head of Matuak Giwa, Simon Ayuba, confirmed the incident on Monday, explaining that the young herder was taking shelter from the rain alongside his cattle when the thunderstrike hit, killing them instantly.

“The herder, along with 12 cows, died on the spot. It was a tragic occurrence that has left the community in shock,” Ayuba said.

The Ardo of Bondon District, Mallam Tanko Isiyaka, also confirmed the incident, disclosing that the deceased herder hailed from Bauchi State.

Tanko expressed sadness over the incident and called for prayers and support for the bereaved family.

The victim was laid to rest according to Islamic rites, leaving behind a family that will have to come to terms with the sudden and tragic loss of their loved one.

Our correspondent reports that the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the weather and the importance of taking necessary precautions during storms.

It was gathered that the community is still reeling from the shock of the incident, and support is pouring in for the bereaved family.

Among the several places where this year’s Eid-el-Fitr prayers were observed in Kwara State on Sunday, that of Sultanate Central Mosque, Adewole, in Ilọrin West Local Government Area stood out.

Just as the Imam ended the prayer some worshipers were surprised when the Imam at the end of his sermon, thanked Zion Baptist Church.

“We are very grateful to Zion Baptist Church for opening their gates for worshipers to use as a car park while they walk down to the Mosque to pray”, the Chief Imam, Murtador Sultan Abdullahi Kamaludeen Al-Adabiy, said.

Mr Jamiu Ogele, who prayed at the mosque, said “I initially thought I didn’t hear what was said until another Muslim brother confirmed it to me. This is very instructive in promoting religious tolerance among the two religions”.

Mrs Ismiyyat Nurudeen said she was very impressed with the development when she heard the Imam’s pronouncement.

“My family had been praying here for long but this is the first time that we will be aware of such action by the church. It is a really positive development,” she said.

It was gathered that because the Eid coincided with Sunday, the church directed that a special arrangement be made to allow the Muslims use the facility in a way that will not disrupt the service and also allow them free access.

The development was responsible for the free flow of traffic that was experienced by worshipers.

Further checks revealed that the church, a stone throw from the Mosque, had been offering such gestures for years  anytime the Mosque is having social or religious functions without any publicity.

We learnt that the leadership of the mosque visited their church counterpart to  thank them.

A worshipper, Engr AbdulSemiu Odenike, in a chat with our correspondent, said the gesture breeds good neighbourliness adding that it had a historical backing in Muslim traditions.

“During the time of the Caliphate of Umar Al-khattab, the second Muslim leader after Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the Coptic Christians in Egypt offered him their church to pray.

“So, once there is sincerity in the act, it is very much encouraged and promotes good neighbourliness among Muslims and Christians as members of a community”.

Abdulmalik Imam Fulani, the Muazim and Legal Adviser of the Mosque, described the action of the church as a show of profound act of tolerance and good neighbourliness that will foster peaceful and healthy living among the two religions.

“This act has been forthcoming that anytime we want to have Eid-el-fitr or Eid-ul-Adha, we do have traffic gridlock and we have the Zion Church a few poles from our Mosque.

“This has been their attitude anytime we are celebrating Sallah to accommodate worshipers by throwing their gates open to use their expansive church premises as a car park for the Muslims”.

He added: “They go beyond that to oblige us with some of their security personnel to assist in directing traffic.

This act shows their resolve to promote religious tolerance and they have been here with us for over a decade now. Yet, we never had any quarrel whatsoever. This has strengthened our coexistence and solidified the peaceful and harmonious relationship between the mosque and the church.

“Though this is strange to some people, what Islam preaches is love and tolerance to your fellow humans and those of other religions including your enemy. So what our Christians brothers have displayed is what Almighty Allah encourages us to do.

“This kind of action cannot happen in some other places with these two worship facilities. The Church may even look for a very powerful microphone to disrupt the Eid but what we discovered today is that the Zion Church did not even use their speakers to allow us to observe the two rakat prayers peacefully. This is really worth appreciating”.

He urged others to emulate what the Church had done, which discourages religious disparity and promotes humanity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians irrespective of their faiths.

“The Quran says every person belongs to his own religion, there is no compulsion. As long as there is no negative action from any of us, there should be no cause for alarm and even if there is any issue, we should iron it out harmoniously.’’

The Chief Imam, Sultanat Central Mosque, Adewole, Ilọrin, Murtador Sultan Abdullahi Kamaludeen Al-Adabiy said the Mosque met the church in the community and in the last over eight years, they have not only been opening their gate to accommodate the Muslims to pack their cars, they also made available their security men to assist in directing traffic.

This will foster unity between the two religions and promote human relations because we all came from Prophet Adam (AS).

“This is a very great gesture. If they don’t do what they did, our Mosque premises will not contain cars and worshippers at the same time and the free movement we experienced today, despite being Sunday when they are holding their church service, would not have been possible.

“We want our Muslim brothers to learn from their act of great kindness from our Christian brothers because the Prophet SAW accommodated Jews and Christians and never showed them bitterness or hatred,” he said.

Responding, the Pastor of the Church, Reverend Dr Festus Oluade Alade,  said as a Christian community living in this neighbourhood, they believe in accommodating their Muslim brothers.

“We have been doing it for over 10 years since the Mosque was established.

“Three days ago, my security came to inform me that it’s likely the Sallah will be held on Sunday this time and whether we should allow the Muslims into our premises   and ‘I said why not?’. I only said it should be managed in a way that we will not disturb each other.

“This is what Christ taught us to love everybody including your enemy. Fortunately, the Muslims are not our enemies but our friends. This is not the first time and not new to us. We continue to embrace them and love each other by the grace of God.

“If everybody will understand that we are one and all Nigerians, why are we fighting each other, nobody can fight for God and the best thing is to accommodate ourselves. In my family, I have a lot of Alhajis, will I now disown them, same thing for Muslim families with pastors among them. So we should be able to relate together as one body and family which is what can bring about the unity we crave in the country. It is when we work together that we can make progress in the country.

“I hope this will be replicated across the country to bring about great transformation. This is going to be continuum, Muslim and Christian worshippers should be able to relate and talk together”, he said.

Deacon Paul Kehinde Oyediran, the chairman of the church Diaconate, said: “God has given us the grace to do this. Some of those you see parking here are aware of this opportunity but some are not. However, seeing their fellow Muslims driving into the church to park where their vehicles are even more secured, they follow suit. It has been sustained over the years because we have not witnessed any act of sabotage or regret from the Muslims over this.

The message is that we should unite together because that is when we can take the country to a higher level rather than disagreement and disparity

For Deacon Samuel Okikiade, the former chairman of the Diaconate, said the decision was approved by the Church’s council.

“This is what Christianity preaches and I am sure that we would not have anything that we want to do and sought their permission to use their premises that they will not oblige..

“We would continue to do this and promote love and harmony as exemplified by Jesus Christ to move the country forward, which will help the society at large.”

Chinese antitrust regulators are investigating a US consortium’s deal for two ports in the Panama Canal zone, reportedly delaying the deal’s closing that was originally set for next week.

President Donald Trump had previously claimed China controls the canal (Panama controls it, although China owns ports on both sides of the crucial maritime passage). Trump has threatened to have the United States once again take control of the canal between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

The deal, led by BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager with an enormous pool of $11.6 trillion in assets, was announced earlier this month and was widely viewed as a way to ease tensions in the region. BlackRock agreed to lead a group that would buy Hong Kong firm CK Hutchison’s controlling interest in 43 other ports around the world, comprising 199 berths in 23 countries.

But China’s State Administration for Market Regulation, the top market regulator, said in answer to a question posed by the state-owned newspaper Ta Kung Pao that it had started an investigation into the deal “In accordance with the law to protect fair competition in the market and safeguard the public interest.” The same statement was reposted on Friday on the website of China’s Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office.

Following that announcement, CK Hutchinson decided that “there will not be an official signing of the two Panama ports deal next week,” according to a report in the South China Morning Post, citing a source close to the Hong Kong firm.

The 51-mile canal is a crucial passage for both cargo ships and military ships to travel been the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. About 4% of the world’s maritime trade and more than 40% of US container traffic goes through the canal.

Tensions between China and the United States have been growing recently. The Trump administration has announced new tariffs of 20% on all goods imported from China, and China has pushed back with pressure of its own. The Trump administration is planning to announce additional tariffs on trading partners next week.

The Panama Canal was built by the United States in the early 20th century and was finished in 1914. For most of that century, it was run by the US, before the Carter administration negotiated its handover to Panama in a controversial treaty that many Republicans opposed at the time.

The canal is key to Panama’s economy. In 2024, the canal earned nearly $5 billion in total profits. According to a study released in December by IDB Invest, 23.6% of Panama’s yearly income comes from the canal and companies that provide services related to the canal’s operations.

Since its handover in 1999, the canal itself has been operated by Panama, not China, despite Trump’s stated concerns.

If you’re looking for a role where you can grow quickly, and make an impact among tens of thousands of people, the Alx Internship Program might be the perfect opportunity for you!

The Alx Internship Program (Learning Community Experience Internship) is aimed at empowering the next generation of technology innovators with access to the most in-demand tech skills that will power the future.

You will more information about the internship program, its requirements, benefits and rewards, and how to apply successfully for it in this post.

Alx Internship Program 2025 Summary

• Host: Alx Africa
• Category: Internships | Training 
• Eligible Countries: African Countries
• Reward: Hands-on Training | Mentorship | Networking | Certification
• No IELTS Required 
• Deadline: Not Specified

Alx Internship Program 2025 (Learning Community Experience Intern) Details:

Do you have a knack for building and nurturing online communities, keeping conversations engaging and meaningful?

Are you skilled at designing insightful surveys and analyzing data to uncover trends and inform decision-making? Can you craft compelling content that resonates with diverse audiences across multiple platforms?

If you’re looking for a role where you can grow quickly, make an impact among tens of thousands of people, and blend expertise with program support an d community engagement, the Alx Internship Program For Africans might be the perfect opportunity for you!

Requirements for Alx Learning Community Experience Internship Program 2025

To be considered for the Alx Learning Community Experience Internship Program 2025, you must demonstrate:

• Minimum 3 years of any experience (depending on the role you select): Pathway 1, Pathway 2, AICE/VA/PF 1, AICE/VA/PF 2, AWS/SF/Cyber, Creative 1, Creative 2, Data/Community, FE/BE/Pro Dev 1  and  FE/BE/Pro Dev 2. 
• Proven ability in data analysis and reporting
• Excellence in communication and content creation
• Community engagement experience at scale
• Program management experience

Key Requirements Include;

• 6-month commitment required
• Focus on measurable outcomes
• Must be comfortable with hybrid working environment
• Strong community orientation
• Must demonstrate bias to action
• Willingness to adapt to changing priorities and needs

Benefits of Alx Internship Program 2025

Alx Internsip Program Rewards

• Hands-on experience in education technology and community building
• Opportunity to impact students’ educational journeys
• Exposure to data-driven decision-making in education
• Networking with experienced professionals
• Collaborative, growth-oriented work environment

As a Learning Community Experience Intern at ALX,

• you will gain hands-on experience in the world of education technology and contribute to the growth of our vibrant learning community
• you will develop technical expertise, educational leadership, and community building
• you will be a critical catalyst in our mission to develop Africa’s next generation of tech and professional leaders, working across various program domains including Pathway, data, technology, creative track, and career development.

Responsibilities of Alx Learning Community Experience Intern

The ideal candidate is as comfortable with data analysis and visualization as they are with community building.

Key Responsibilities include;

• Own end-to-end program lifecycle from activation to alumni transition
• Collaborate cross-functionally with city teams, central program teams, and other functions within the organization
• Analyze program metrics and create impact reports
• Support and engage with the learner community
• Track and measure community engagement metrics
• Manage program operations, resources, and stakeholder expectations
• Implement data collection and analysis frameworks

How to Apply for Alx Internship Program 2025 (Step by Step)

To apply for the Alx Internship Program 2025 interested and qualified candidates should use the button below to submit their applications.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: Not Specified

Applications for the NNPC OANDO Scholarship 2025/26 are now open for qualified Nigerians currently studying in Nigerian tertiary universities.

The NNPC OANDO National JV Scholarship offers eligible Nigerian tertiary education students a ₦200,000 annual grant. Selected students will be funded from the period of selection to the final year of study in their current universities.

This post will explain all there is to know about the NNPC OANDO Scholarship, as well as its step-by-step details on how to submit an application.

NNPC OANDO Scholarship Summary

• Host: NNPC OANDO
• Study Abroad: Study in Africa
• Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
• Eligible Countries: Nigeria
• Reward: ₦200.000/Yr
• Deadline: April 30 2025

NNPC/NAOC/OANDO Scholarship Details:

The NNPC/NAOC/OANDO Joint Venture in pursuance of its Corporate Social Responsibility invites suitably qualified applicants for its 2022 Tertiary NNPC/NAOC/OANDO Scholarship Scholarship Scheme, effective March 27 to April 30, 2025. 

Category of Awards

• Host/Transit Communities Merit Award – For applicants strictly from OANDO Host/Transit Communities
• National Merit Award – For applicants from Non-Host/Transit communities

NNPC OANDO Scholarship 2025 Requirements:

To be considered for the NNPC/NAOC/OANDO JV Scholarship, you must:

• Be registered Full-TIME undergraduates in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions
• Be certified 100-level students at the time of application (Only students admitted in the 2024/2025 academic session)
• Must be citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
• Must not be a beneficiary of any other scholarship from an entity operating in the Oil and Gas Industry, National or International

NOTE: The following categories of students should not apply:

• Current beneficiaries of similar Awards from other Companies and Agencies
• Dependents of NAOC/NAE/AENR/NACPFA
• Only Indigenes of NAOC Host/Transit Communities in Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta and Imo States SHOULD apply for the Host Communities Merit Award.
• Only applicants studying Engineering, Geology, Geosciences and Agricultural Science are eligible for the National Merit Award.

NNPC OANDO Scholarship Duration and Reward

• The NNPC OANDO Scholarship 2025 offers an annual ₦200,000 award to selected  tertiary institution students throughout the period of study

Required Documents for NNPC NAOC Scholarship

To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;

• Passport photograph with white background not more than 3 months old (450px by 450px not more than 200kb)
• School ID Card
• O’level Certificate
• Admission Letter
• Birth Certificate
• Proof of Local Government Area of Origin
• Letter from Community Paramount Ruler (Only Applicants for Host Communities Merit Award)
• Letter from CDC Chairman (Only Applicants for Host Communities Merit Award).
• JAMB Result
• Ensure the documents are named according to what they represent to avoid mixing up documents during upload
• Ensure you attach the appropriate documents when asked to upload
• Ensure to provide valid Email and Phone Contact for effective communication
• All candidates are required to fill and sign the NAOC compliance declaration form. To download the NAOC compliance declaration, click https://dragnetscreening.ng/files/NAOC_compliance.pdf

How To Apply for NNPC OANDO Scholarship 2025 (Step-by-Step)

To apply for the NNPC/NAOC/OANDO Scholarship, interested and qualified applicants should do the following;

• Click on the button below to visit the scholarship webpage
• On the top right corner of the page, click on “Apply Now” tab. 
• Click on “Register Now” to create an account. 
• Proceed to your email box to activate your account 
• Enter your personal information, National Identification Number, educational information, other information and upload required scanned documents. 
• Ensure the name used in applications matches the names on all documentation in same order. Upload a sworn affidavit or certificate if otherwise. 
• Ensure you view all documents after uploading, to ensure that they are clear and accurate. 
• When asked to upload photo, upload a passport photograph with a white background. 
• Recheck application information to avoid errors 
• Click “Apply Now” to submit information 
• You will receive an email and a SMS that confirms your application was successful. 
• Return to https://candidate.scholastica.ng/, enter your Email and Password to download your profile and proceed to have your Head of Department sign the document. 
• Upload a scanned copy of the signed profile, this would be used for verification. 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: April 30, 2025

The SOAS University of London in the United Kingdom (UK) is pleased to announce the Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2025 for all educational intellectuals.

The Hyundai Motor Scholarship at the University of London (SOAS) covers full tuition fees and provides an annual stipend of £22,780 to cover living and other study expenses.

This article provides a deep insight into the details of the program, its requirements, benefits, and a step-by-step application guide for candidates interested in applying for the scholarship.

Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
• Study Abroad: Study in UK 
• Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships 
• Eligible Countries: African Countries
• Reward: Full Scholarship | £22,780 Living Stipend per year
• No IELTS Required 
• Deadline: April 25, 2025
• Scholarship Alerts: To receive Scholarship Alerts on WhatsApp, Click HERE

Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2025 University of London Details:

Hyundai Motor Group is offering five scholarships intended to nurture talent from Africa at SOAS University of London. 

The Hyundai Motor Scholarships aim to cultivate experts for sustainable development in Africa and will continue to establish long-term collaboration models for the next generation of Africans.

Hyundai Scholarships 2025 are designed to create meaningful change and empower students to find solutions to global challenges.

Eligibility Requirements for Hyundai Motor Scholarship 2025

To be considered for the Hyundai Motor Scholarships 2025, you must:

• Be an African National who is a resident of Africa.
• Be a fee-paying international applicant
• Be applying for programmes starting in 2025/26.
• Be in the top rank, as evidenced by references and transcripts.
• Applicants for the MA scholarship must possess or expect to be awarded an international equivalent to a first-class honours degree from a UK university.
• Applicants for the MPhil/PhD scholarship must possess or expect to be awarded with an international equivalent to a master’s degree with distinction from a UK university.
• Applicants with a 2:1 may also apply, but will not be given preference.
• Have applied to SOAS but are not required to have received an offer of admission by the scholarship deadline. 
• Meet the English language condition of their offer of admission to study at SOAS, if applicable.

Benefits of Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2025

• For master’s students, the Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship covers full tuition fees, and any remaining amount from the total award of £27,730 is provided as a stipend to support living costs.
• PhD scholars will receive full tuition coverage for three years, plus the writing-up fee for the fourth year, along with an annual stipend of £22,780, paid in termly instalments.
• In addition to financial support, scholars gain exclusive access to Hyundai-led networking events and seminars, opportunities for post-study alumni engagement, and the option to apply for a Junior Internship Program at SOAS.

Required Documents for Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship

To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;

• Application Form
• Academic Transcripts
• Bachelors/ Diploma Certificate (Masters)
• Personal Statement
• Recommendation Letters
• Proof of English Language Proficiency 
• CV

How to Apply for Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2025 (Step by Step)

To apply for the Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2025 University of London SOAS, interested and qualified candidates should;

• Click the button below to navigate to the SOAS Scholarship webpage.
• Apply for a Master’s/MPhil?PhD degree program at the University of London.
• Proceed to apply for the Hyundai Scholarship by 12:00pm (midday) UK local time on 25 April 2025 via the online application form. 
• The scholarship shortlisting and awarding period is expected to be completed in June at the earliest.
• Successful candidates will be contacted first, and once all awards have been allocated, unsuccessful candidates will be notified.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: April 25, 2025

The Google Student Researcher Program is a paid position that offers the opportunity to work directly with Google research scientists and engineers on research projects.

The 2025 Google Student Researcher Program offers more opportunities for research students to work on critical research projects at Google in a less structured way.

In this article, you will be guided on how to apply for the opportunity as well as the requirements and benefits.

2025 Google Student Researcher Program Summary

• Host: Google
• Category: Internships | Training
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Reward: Salary | Training | Networking
• No IELTS Required 
• Deadline: July 11, 2025

2025 Google Student Researcher Program Details:

The Student Researcher Program’s primary objective is to foster academic collaborations with students through research at Google.

The Google Student Researcher Program is intended for students enrolled in a full-time degree program in the EMEA region who will be returning to their degree program after the completion of the internship.

The program allows for flexibility beyond the limitations of our traditional internship program on aspects such as duration, time commitment, and working location with options for on-site or remote. The topics student researchers work on tend to be open-ended and exploratory, and don’t always have a clear deliverable like a traditional internship would.

Eligibility Requirements for 2025 Google Student Researcher Program

To be considered for the 2025 Google Student Researcher Program, you must:

Minimum qualifications:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Computer Science, Linguistics, Statistics, Biostatistics, Applied Mathematics, Operations Research, Economics, or Natural Sciences, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience in one area of computer science (e.g., Natural Language Understanding, Human Computer Interactions, Generative Media, Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Algorithmic Foundations of Optimization, Quantum Information Science, Data Science, Software Engineering, or similar areas).

Preferred qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a full-time degree program in EMEA and returning to the program after completion of the internship.
• Experience as a researcher, including internships, full-time, or at a lab.
• Experience contributing to research communities or efforts, including publishing papers in major conferences or journals.
• Experience with one or more general purpose programming languages (e.g., C/C++, Java, MATLAB, Go, Python, etc.).

Benefits of 2025 Google Student Researcher Program

As a Google Student Researcher, you get;

• regular pay and salary during the program.
• opportunity to work directly with Google research scientists and engineers on research projects. 
• to participate in research to develop solutions for real-world, large-scale problems.

How to Apply for 2025 Google Student Researcher Program (Step by Step)

To start the 2025 Google Student Researcher Program application process,

• You will need an updated CV or resume and a current unofficial or official transcript in English.
• Click on the “Apply” button on this page and provide the required materials in the appropriate sections (PDFs preferred):
• In the “Resume Section:” attach an updated CV or resume.
• In the “Education Section:” attach a current or recent unofficial or official transcript in English.
• Under “Degree Status,” select “Now attending” to upload a transcript.
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and it’s in the applicant’s best interest to apply early. The anticipated application window is open until July 11, 2025, but may close earlier if all available projects are full.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: July 11, 2025

The Naira yesterday appreciated to N1, 575 per dollar in the parallel market from N1,585 per dollar on Monday.

But the Naira depreciated to N1,535 per dollar in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM).

Data published by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, showed that the indicative exchange rate for the naira rose to N1,535 per dollar from N1,533 per dollar on Monday, indicating N2 depreciation for the naira.

Consequently, the margin between the parallel market and NFEM rate narrowed to N40 per dollar from N52 per dollar on Monday.

According to Olanrewaju, the state government will take legal action if the establishment of the panel is deemed unconstitutional.

“The governor was very clear on this matter from the outset. If it is a constitutional issue, then we must refer to the Constitution. Does the Constitution allow this? That is what will determine the state’s actions because we cannot act outside the law,” he said.

He added, “So, does the Constitution allow the establishment of a Sharia panel or court? If they claim it does, it will be tested in court. I don’t think it does. The Constitution does not permit individuals or groups to set up a court in a state.”

Despite the controversy, the Chairman of the Sharia Committee of Oyo Land, Dr. Rafiu Bello, confirmed that the panel had commenced sittings at the Central Mosque, Akesan, Oyo.

“The Sharia panel in Oyo has now been established and sits every Thursday from 10 am to 1 pm. Those knowledgeable in Sharia law preside over the panel, and people have started bringing cases before it,” Bello stated.

He argued that Nigerian law permits the establishment of a Sharia panel and welcomed observers to witness its proceedings.

The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, Oyo chapter, had earlier suspended the panel’s inauguration in January following public outcry.

However, Bello maintained that the panel’s establishment was lawful and necessary for the South-West Muslim community.

He also revealed that similar Sharia panels already exist in other parts of Oyo State, including Ogbomoso, Kisi, Saki, and Ibadan, and that a new date would be announced for the formal inauguration of the Oyo panel.

Makinde’s administration has consistently maintained that the state will be guided by constitutional provisions on the matter.

Reiterating this stance, Olanrewaju said, “Even if it is a panel, it must have the backing of the state.

The Federal Government and state governments can set up panels, but individuals or groups cannot establish panels that sit in judgment over people without legal backing. If anybody does that, it is illegal.”

He added that Oyo State remains committed to the rule of law and would take the matter to court if necessary.

“If this comes to our notice, it will be tested in court. The court will determine whether it is legal or not. But for us in Oyo State, we are being guided by the Constitution and its provisions,” he affirmed.

During its inaugural sittings, the Oyo Sharia panel reportedly handled cases related to marital disputes, inheritance, land disagreements, and contractual breaches.

Bello clarified that while the panel is designed for Muslims seeking resolution based on Islamic principles, it remains open to both Muslims and non-Muslims.

“Sharia is beneficial to Muslims and even non-Muslims. It is voluntary. Sharia is a law of Allah relevant to all humans, and it is meant to guide conduct,” he stated.

He added that the panel aims to offer advice rooted in Islamic teachings, emphasizing reconciliation and the fear of God in resolving disputes.

Meanwhile, opposition to the panel’s establishment remains strong, particularly from Christian groups and civil society organizations, who argue that it is an attempt to Islamize the South-West.

Despite the resistance, proponents insist that the panel is non-negotiable and a necessary institution for the region’s Muslim community.

Confirming the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that the officers had been identified and taken into custody, while the extorted money had been recovered.

“The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has ordered an immediate investigation and disciplinary action against the erring officers,” Hundeyin said.

Narrating his experience, Adenola said he was travelling to Ife after a business trip in Lagos when he and a colleague were flagged down by the policemen while riding in a Bolt vehicle heading to Berger.

Despite conducting thorough searches of their bags and mobile phones and finding nothing incriminating, the officers insisted on taking them to the Isheri Police Station, where they were held for about two hours.

According to Adenola, the officers accused him of having “incriminating evidence” on his phone after spotting the Binance app—a cryptocurrency trading platform.

“Seizing the opportunity, the officers allegedly demanded a bribe of N2 million, which Adenola said he managed to negotiate down to N150,000.

“They made me walk across the street to withdraw the money from a POS operator and hand it to them,” Adenola lamented.

“What was supposed to be a 20-minute ride turned into a two-hour extortion session.”

To make matters worse, Adenola revealed that after handing over the money, the officers demanded a “gate fee” before allowing him to leave the station.

Following the complaint, Hundeyin stated that the Commissioner of Police had directed that the detained officers be transferred to the Command Headquarters for disciplinary procedures at the Provost Unit.

He assured that the full weight of the law would be brought upon the officers, while also confirming that the extorted money would be returned to Adenola.

The incident adds to growing concerns over police misconduct and extortion in Nigeria, particularly cases involving the profiling of young Nigerians based on their use of cryptocurrency-related applications.

Many citizens have called for stricter measures to curb the abuse of power by security operatives and ensure that victims of police extortion receive justice.

In a landmark move for Africa’s tech industry, HOSTAFRICA, a leading web hosting provider on the continent, has officially completed its acquisition of GO54 (formerly known as WhoGoHost), one of Nigeria’s most influential web hosting companies. With GO54 commanding over 20% of Nigeria’s domain market share, this acquisition represents a pivotal moment in HOSTAFRICA’s mission to drive digital transformation across Africa.

This strategic acquisition not only strengthens HOSTAFRICA’s foothold in Nigeria but also underscores its dedication to empowering African businesses with innovative, reliable, and scalable hosting solutions.

A Stronger Presence in Nigeria

HOSTAFRICA first entered the Nigerian market in 2021 under the brand DomainKing.ng, introducing tailored hosting solutions designed to meet the unique needs of Nigerian businesses. The acquisition of GO54, which manages an impressive portfolio of over 100,000 domains, propels HOSTAFRICA to the forefront of Nigeria’s tech sector, solidifying its status as a market leader.

Elevating Services for GO54 Customers

As part of the acquisition, GO54’s local expertise and infrastructure will be seamlessly integrated into HOSTAFRICA’s expansive network. This integration promises GO54 customers access to enhanced technology, superior support, and a broader range of hosting solutions. HOSTAFRICA is committed to ensuring a smooth transition, offering GO54 clients advanced hosting services, scalable options, and more responsive customer care.

Michael Osterloh, CEO of HOSTAFRICA, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition:

“We are delighted to officially welcome GO54 into the HOSTAFRICA family. This partnership has been meticulously planned in collaboration with the GO54 team, and we are excited to work together to elevate the hosting experience for customers in Nigeria and beyond.”

Building Africa’s Hosting Powerhouse

The acquisition aligns perfectly with HOSTAFRICA’s vision of creating a dominant hosting platform across Africa. By combining GO54’s established presence in Nigeria with HOSTAFRICA’s cutting-edge services, the company is poised to deliver robust, reliable, and innovative solutions to businesses of all sizes. This move cements HOSTAFRICA’s position as Nigeria’s leading domain provider and a key player in Africa’s digital ecosystem.

A Seamless and Transparent Transition

The acquisition process, finalized in January 2025, followed rigorous regulatory approvals and due diligence. Both HOSTAFRICA and GO54 are committed to ensuring a transparent and collaborative integration process, guaranteeing uninterrupted services and continued growth for their customers.

For more information about HOSTAFRICA’s services and its expanding impact in Nigeria, visit HOSTAFRICA.

About HOSTAFRICA

Founded in 2016 by Michael Osterloh and two seasoned hosting entrepreneurs from Europe, HOSTAFRICA is dedicated to unlocking digital opportunities for entrepreneurs across Africa. Since its inception, the company has grown rapidly, emerging as a major player in Africa’s digital landscape. With a comprehensive suite of hosting solutions—including websites, e-commerce, and VPS services—HOSTAFRICA serves over 70,000 customers.

The company’s expansion into Nigeria in 2021 and Kenya in 2022 highlights its commitment to building a strong presence across the continent. Known for its exceptional customer support, HOSTAFRICA boasts an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating on the renowned review platform, HelloPeter. This commitment to personalized assistance and industry-leading response times ensures that all clients, regardless of their technical expertise, receive the support they need to thrive in the digital space.

• For media inquiries, please contact: marketing@hostafrica.com
• Office Address: 12 Helena Ave, Helena Heights, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7130

This acquisition marks a new chapter for both HOSTAFRICA and GO54, as they join forces to redefine web hosting in Nigeria and across Africa. Stay tuned for more updates as these two industry leaders work together to deliver unparalleled digital solutions to businesses and entrepreneurs.

In a dramatic courtroom verdict on Tuesday, February 19, 2025, rapper A$AP Rocky was acquitted of two felony assault charges, bringing an end to a high-profile trial that had captivated fans and media alike. The Grammy-nominated artist, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, faced the possibility of over 20 years in prison if convicted.

The case stemmed from an alleged altercation with his former friend and fellow AAPMobmember,TerellEphron,alsoknownasAAP Relli. The incident reportedly occurred in a Hollywood parking garage on November 6, 2021. Ephron claimed that Mayers had lured him to the location, where a heated argument escalated into violence.

Ephron testified that Mayers had brandished a semi-automatic weapon, pointed it at his stomach, and threatened, “I’ll kill you right now.” He alleged that two shots were fired, with one bullet grazing his knuckles. However, Mayers’ defense team argued that the weapon in question was nothing more than a prop gun used in movies and music videos.

Defense attorney Joe Tacopina painted Ephron as an unreliable witness, accusing him of fabricating the story to extort money from his wealthy and famous client. Tacopina emphasized that no weapon or shell casings were found during an extensive police search of the scene. He also questioned the credibility of Ephron’s claim that he discovered the casings hours after the police had left.

The jury ultimately sided with Mayers, delivering a unanimous “not guilty” verdict on both counts of felony assault. The rapper, visibly relieved, embraced his legal team and supporters as the verdict was announced. Outside the courtroom, Tacopina praised the jury for seeing through what he called a “mirage of a case” and suggested that Ephron should face charges for attempting to extort his client.

Mayers, 36, is best known for his critically acclaimed albums Long. Live. AAP and At.Long.Last.AAP, which catapulted him to global fame. He is also the partner of pop icon Rihanna, with whom he shares two children. Rihanna was frequently seen in court during the trial, showing her support for Mayers.

This case marks another chapter in Mayers’ legal history. In 2019, he was involved in a highly publicized assault case in Sweden, which led to diplomatic tensions between the Swedish government and the United States. Former President Donald Trump even intervened, advocating for Mayers’ release.

The acquittal has been celebrated by fans and supporters, who view it as a vindication for the rapper. Meanwhile, the outcome raises questions about the credibility of the allegations and the role of fame and wealth in high-stakes legal battles.

As the dust settles, A$AP Rocky can now focus on his music and family, leaving this legal ordeal behind him

Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL) has had an extraordinary year. From hitting a 52-week low of 8.74inJune2023tosoaringtoa52−weekhighof179.70 on May 29, 2024, Dell’s stock has more than tripled in value. This impressive growth has been fueled by the surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) hardware, a market where Dell has positioned itself as a key player with its PCs, servers, and IT infrastructure products tailored for AI applications.

However, Dell’s stock experienced a dip following its fiscal first-quarter earnings report for the period ending May 3, 2024. This raises an important question for investors: Is this a buying opportunity, or are there red flags to consider? Let’s break down Dell’s performance, strengths, and challenges to help you make an informed decision.

Dell’s Strengths: Riding the AI Wave

Dell’s recent success can largely be attributed to its IT infrastructure business, which saw a remarkable 22% year-over-year revenue growth in Q1, reaching $9.2 billion. This division now accounts for over 40% of Dell’s total sales, up from 36% a year ago. The company has capitalized on the AI boom by offering a robust portfolio of AI-enabled hardware, making it a go-to provider for businesses investing in AI technology.

Another key strength is Dell’s well-established supply chain. By maintaining relationships with multiple vendors, including semiconductor giants like Nvidia and AMD, Dell ensures a steady supply of critical components. This strategic advantage allows the company to meet the growing demand for AI hardware without significant disruptions.

Challenges: Margin Pressures and Competitive Landscape

Despite its strong revenue growth, Dell’s gross margin declined by 250 basis points in Q1, and management expects a further 150 basis point drop in fiscal 2025. The company attributes this margin erosion to inflationary pressures and intense competition in the tech hardware space.

While declining margins are a concern, it’s worth noting that Dell’s gross margin has historically fluctuated over time. The company has demonstrated resilience in navigating such challenges, and there’s potential for improvement as market conditions evolve.

Future Outlook: AI-Driven Growth Ahead

Dell remains optimistic about its future, particularly in the AI space. According to COO Jeff Clarke, the company is witnessing an expansion in the number of enterprise customers adopting AI solutions. This trend positions Dell for long-term growth, as the adoption of AI technology is still in its early stages.

For fiscal 2025, Dell forecasts revenue of at least 

93.5billion,upfrom88.4 billion in fiscal 2024. This growth is expected to be driven by strong demand for AI-optimized products and a rebound in the PC market, which had faced a cyclical downturn in previous years.

Should You Buy Dell Stock?

Dell’s recent stock dip following its Q1 earnings report may present a buying opportunity for investors who believe in the company’s long-term potential. The AI hardware market is poised for significant growth, and Dell’s strong position in this space, coupled with its reliable supply chain, makes it a compelling choice.

However, investors should keep an eye on the company’s margin performance and competitive pressures. While Dell’s revenue growth is impressive, sustained margin erosion could impact profitability.

Final Thoughts

Dell Technologies is a company at the forefront of the AI revolution, with a proven track record of innovation and adaptability. For investors seeking exposure to the AI hardware market, Dell’s stock is worth considering, especially if the recent dip aligns with your investment strategy.

As always, conduct thorough research and consider your risk tolerance before making any investment decisions. Dell’s journey in the AI era is just beginning, and the company’s ability to capitalize on this transformative technology could drive significant value for shareholders in the years to come.

In a recent statement, the Federal Government has refuted claims that it has abolished the Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) system. Instead, it confirmed that discussions are still underway regarding potential reforms to the current education structure.

Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, addressed the issue in an interview with THISDAY, emphasizing that while the government is considering a shift to a 12-year uninterrupted basic education model, no final decisions have been made. This clarification comes in response to a media report suggesting that the government had already replaced the existing 6-3-3-4 education system with a 12-4 model.

The report had alleged that the minister announced this change during the 2025 extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) meeting in Abuja. However, Alausa clarified that Nigeria is still in the early stages of deliberation and that any proposed changes would require approval from the National Council of Education, the highest authority on education policies.

Why the Reform?

The proposed 12-year basic education system aims to extend Nigeria’s compulsory education period from nine to twelve years. According to Alausa, this adjustment is intended to strengthen students’ foundational knowledge, which has reportedly declined under the current system.

“We are proposing to increase compulsory education from nine to twelve years to ensure students are better prepared for tertiary education and to align with global standards,” Alausa explained. He added that a continuous curriculum would promote better standardization, quality assurance, and improved educational outcomes.

The minister also highlighted concerns about age restrictions delaying talented students from entering universities. “Bright students who complete secondary school at 16 are often forced to wait until they turn 18 before they can enroll in tertiary institutions. This delay not only hinders their academic progress but could also negatively impact their mental health,” he noted.

No Immediate Changes

Despite the ongoing discussions, Alausa assured the public that no changes would be implemented before the last quarter of 2025. This means the current 6-3-3-4 system remains in place for now, and any potential reforms will undergo thorough evaluation and approval processes before being enacted.

The proposed reform reflects the government’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s education system and ensuring it meets international standards. However, as Alausa reiterated, the process is still in its early stages, and stakeholders will be kept informed as discussions progress.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!

The UK government offers sponsor licences to businesses that wish to employ non-UK workers under visa categories such as the Skilled Worker visa. The process involves various stages, costs, and obligations that organizations must adhere to for compliance. While the headline application fee may seem straightforward, the total cost incorporates several other factors, making it essential for employers to plan effectively.

Sponsor Licence Application Fee

The fee for a sponsor licence depends on the classification of your business as either a small or charitable sponsor or a medium/large sponsor:

1. Small or Charitable Sponsors

   • The application fee for small or charitable sponsors is £536.
   • A business is classified as "small" if it meets two of these three criteria:
     • Annual turnover of £10.2 million or less.
     • Total assets of £5.1 million or less.
     • Employing 50 or fewer staff members.

2. Medium or Large Sponsors

   • Businesses that do not qualify as small or charitable are categorized as medium or large sponsors.
   • The application fee for these organizations is £1,476.

This distinction plays a crucial role in understanding how much does it cost sponsor licence, as the cost varies based on your business size and structure.

Additional Costs Associated with Sponsorship

Beyond the application fee, employers must account for several ancillary costs:

1. Immigration Skills Charge (ISC)

The Immigration Skills Charge is a mandatory fee for employers sponsoring workers under certain visa categories. The charge applies annually for each worker and depends on the size of your business:

• Small or Charitable Sponsors: £364 per year.
• Medium or Large Sponsors: £1,000 per year.

For example, sponsoring an employee on a three-year visa would cost a large sponsor £3,000 in ISC fees alone.

2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Each sponsored worker requires a Certificate of Sponsorship, which costs £199 per certificate. This is a fixed fee regardless of the business size.

3. Legal and Consultancy Fees

Many employers choose to engage immigration consultants or legal experts to navigate the complexities of the application process. Professional fees can range from £500 to £5,000, depending on the services required.

4. Ongoing Compliance Costs

Maintaining a sponsor licence involves additional expenses, including:

• HR system upgrades to manage employee records.
• Staff training on compliance and sponsorship duties.
• Preparation for potential Home Office audits.

5. Renewals and Amendments

Sponsor licences are valid for four years. Renewal fees are identical to the initial application fee, meaning small sponsors pay £536, while medium/large sponsors pay £1,476. Additionally, businesses must pay to amend their licence if changes occur, such as adding new visa categories.

Graphical Breakdown of Costs

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with sponsorship obligations can result in severe financial and reputational consequences:

• Fines of up to £20,000 per illegal worker.
• Suspension or revocation of the sponsor licence.
• Additional costs for legal representation during disputes.

Employers must ensure strict adherence to Home Office regulations to avoid these penalties.

Strategic Considerations

To minimize costs and maximize efficiency, businesses should take a strategic approach to sponsorship:

1. Conduct a Cost-Benefit Analysis

Assess whether hiring overseas talent aligns with your long-term business goals. Factor in both direct and indirect costs to evaluate the return on investment.

2. Leverage Alternative Visa Routes

Certain visa categories, such as the Global Talent Visa, may not require a sponsor licence. Exploring these options can help businesses reduce expenses.

3. Maintain a Compliance-Ready Framework

Invest in robust HR systems and regular staff training to meet sponsorship obligations. This proactive approach can prevent costly penalties.

4. Build Contingency Funds

Unexpected expenses, such as Home Office audits or legal disputes, can arise. Setting aside contingency funds ensures financial stability in such scenarios.

Real-Life Example

A mid-sized IT company in the UK recently applied for a sponsor licence to hire a software engineer from India. Here's a detailed cost breakdown:

This example highlights the comprehensive financial commitment required for sponsorship.

Importance of Planning

Understanding how much does it cost sponsor licence goes beyond knowing the fees. Proper planning ensures that businesses remain compliant, financially prepared, and capable of leveraging the global talent pool effectively.

Conclusion

Applying for a sponsor licence involves a blend of direct fees, ancillary costs, and ongoing obligations. By understanding how much does it cost to apply for a sponsor licence, businesses can make informed decisions, ensuring they remain competitive in the global market. Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, strategic planning and adherence to compliance guidelines are key to a successful sponsorship journey.

The DeepTech_Ready Upskilling Program is part of a larger initiative to boost AI talent in Nigeria, made possible by a N2.8 billion grant from Google.org, which was announced in October. This funding is part of Google.org’s wider $5.8 million investment aimed at empowering Africa’s digital transformation.

Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, expressed the importance of the program, stating, “The launch of DeepTech_Ready demonstrates our shared vision to place Nigeria at the forefront of the global digital economy. With the backing of Google.org, we are developing future leaders in AI and data science while ensuring that Nigeria leverages AI’s full potential for economic progress and societal advancement.”

The DeepTech_Ready Upskilling Program will equip 20,000 young Nigerians with advanced skills in Data Science and AI, spread across multiple cohorts. Each cohort will participate in a comprehensive six-month curriculum, including self-paced learning, on-site support, project-based experiences, and job readiness training, preparing them for high-demand tech roles in the global digital marketplace.

Dr. Tijani reiterated the program's significance, emphasizing, “This program is a realization of our collective vision to drive Nigeria’s leadership in the digital economy. Google.org’s support is not only developing AI and data science talent but also ensuring that AI technologies are fully utilized for Nigeria’s growth.”

Specialisations Covered in the Program Include:

1. Advanced Data Analysis and Visualization
2. Data Science/Machine Learning
3. Data Architecture
4. Geospatial Data Science
5. Computer Vision
6. Natural Language Processing
7. Advanced Mathematics and Machine Learning

The program aligns with the goals of the National AI Strategy under the Federal Ministry of Communication, Innovation & Digital Economy and supports Google’s ongoing efforts to foster technological innovation across Africa. It builds on the foundation of previous initiatives and aims to elevate Nigeria’s status as a technology leader.

Registration for the first cohort is now open, and interested individuals are encouraged to apply early for a chance to join this groundbreaking educational opportunity. More details can be found on the official 3MTT website.

For further information and registration, visit:

 3mtt.nitda.gov.ng/deeptech

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has announced the elevation of specific undergraduate programs in the medical field from Bachelor’s degree status to doctoral level in Nigerian universities.

This significant development was disclosed on Wednesday in a statement by Franca Chukwuonwo, the Acting Director of Public Affairs for the NUC.

Purpose of the Upgrade

The NUC explained that the decision to elevate these programs was motivated by the need to:

• Introduce more extensive clinical and practical training.
• Expand the coverage of foundational courses.
• Improve students’ clinical competencies.
• Provide in-depth coverage of all specialty areas.

This initiative aligns with international standards for professional training, ensuring Nigerian graduates remain globally competitive in their respective fields.

Extended Program Duration

As part of the restructuring, the duration of the affected programs has been increased from five to six years. The additional year will accommodate an enhanced curriculum and comprehensive clinical training, equipping students with the knowledge and skills required for professional excellence.

Upgraded Programs

According to the statement, the following programs have been upgraded to doctoral status in line with the NUC’s Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) and Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS):

• Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D)
• Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT)
• Doctor of Optometry (O.D)

These revised programs will incorporate advanced clinical sessions aimed at raising the standard of healthcare education and enhancing professional preparedness in Nigeria.

The NUC reassured stakeholders that these reforms are part of its ongoing commitment to improving education quality in critical sectors such as healthcare, thereby producing graduates who meet global professional standards.

The Women Techsters Fellowship is a fully funded, one-year program aimed at equipping African women aged 16 to 40 with sought-after technology skills. This initiative is dedicated to bridging the gender divide in the tech industry by creating pathways for women to excel in tech-based careers.

Program Structure

The fellowship is divided into two key phases:

First Six Months:

Participants will engage in intensive, hands-on training, combining technical skills with vital soft skills to ensure they are fully prepared for the professional world.

Final Six Months:

This phase focuses on real-life experience. Fellows will apply their skills through internships, freelance work, entrepreneurial ventures, volunteering, or mentorship opportunities.

Career Pathways

The 2025 edition of the Women Techsters Fellowship offers specializations in the following high-demand tech fields:

• DevOps
• Cybersecurity
• Data Science and Engineering
• Mobile Application Development
• Product Design
• Product Management
• Software Development (Front End and Back End)
• Eligibility Criteria

African women who meet the following requirements are encouraged to apply:

Age: 16 to 40 years

Residency: Must reside in any African country (e.g., Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, Ethiopia)

Education: No formal degree is necessary, but basic digital skills will be an advantage.

Application Guidelines

Only one application is permitted; submitting multiple applications will result in disqualification.

Upon submitting your application, you will receive an acknowledgment email after your application is processed.

Application Deadline: January 31, 2025.

Ready to apply? Click here to apply 

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking fellowship designed to empower African women in technology

By Salis Muhd Baqir 

According to the law, only certificates obtained from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the National Universities Commission (NUC) are eligible for jobs in Nigeria. These qualifications include:

- National Diploma (ND)

- Higher National Diploma (HND)

- Bachelor of Science (BSc)

- Master of Science (MSc)

- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

If anyone denies you a job despite having these qualifications, show them a copy of the relevant circular. If they still refuse, do not waste your time. You have the right to sue them in court for violating federal government laws.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has disregarded and stopped recognizing professional certifications for government jobs in Nigeria.

Salis Muhd Baqir

National Board for Technical Education - NBTE

National Universities Commission

In this post, we will explore the top 10 health insurance companies in Nigeria, highlighting their offerings, customer service, and what makes them stand out in the competitive market. Whether you're an individual seeking personal health coverage or a business looking to provide employees with healthcare benefits, these companies offer plans that will safeguard your well-being and financial future.

1. AXA Mansard Health Insurance

AXA Mansard Health Insurance is one of Nigeria’s leading health insurance providers. A subsidiary of the AXA Group, one of the largest insurance companies globally, AXA Mansard Health offers comprehensive health plans that cater to the needs of both individuals and corporate clients. The company provides health coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, surgeries, outpatient care, and maternity services.

AXA Mansard’s health insurance plans are flexible, allowing policyholders to choose the level of coverage that suits their needs and budget. They also have a strong network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers across Nigeria, ensuring that customers have access to quality care at all times.

Why AXA Mansard Health?

- A global brand with a reputation for excellent service.

- Comprehensive health insurance plans covering various medical needs.

- Flexibility in plan options to suit individuals and businesses.

- Wide network of healthcare providers across Nigeria.

- A user-friendly mobile app for easy claims processing and plan management.

AXA Mansard stands out for its reliability, global expertise, and customer-focused approach, making it an excellent choice for health insurance coverage.

2. Greenstar Health Insurance

Greenstar Health Insurance is known for providing innovative and affordable health insurance plans in Nigeria. The company offers a range of individual and corporate health plans that cater to the diverse needs of its clients. Greenstar’s health insurance covers inpatient and outpatient care, surgeries, emergency services, preventive care, and maternity.

Greenstar is especially popular for its customer-centric approach. The company focuses on making healthcare more affordable and accessible, providing efficient services through a wide network of hospitals and medical facilities.

Why Greenstar Health Insurance?

- Affordable and accessible health insurance plans.

- Comprehensive coverage for various health needs.

- Efficient customer service and easy claims process.

- Network of reputable healthcare providers across the country.

- Focus on preventative healthcare and wellness.

Greenstar Health Insurance continues to earn customer trust by offering affordable, reliable, and accessible healthcare coverage.

3. HealthPlus Insurance

HealthPlus Insurance is one of Nigeria’s most dynamic health insurance companies, offering a range of products designed to meet the healthcare needs of individuals and businesses. The company provides coverage for hospital admissions, outpatient care, dental and optical care, maternity, and preventive health services. 

HealthPlus is recognized for its innovative approach, especially in offering affordable plans for low-income individuals. Their focus on making healthcare accessible to the underserved populations in Nigeria has made them a standout player in the health insurance market.

Why HealthPlus Insurance?

- Innovative plans tailored for individuals and businesses.

- Affordable pricing, catering to different income groups.

- Comprehensive coverage options, including outpatient and preventive care.

- A strong network of hospitals and medical providers.

- Commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for all Nigerians.

HealthPlus Insurance has earned a reputation for being a reliable and affordable health insurance provider with a strong commitment to making healthcare accessible to more Nigerians.

4. Reliance Health

Reliance Health is a digital health insurance company that has revolutionized the health insurance landscape in Nigeria. Known for its tech-driven approach, Reliance Health offers seamless online sign-ups, claims processing, and easy management of health insurance plans. The company provides comprehensive health coverage, including outpatient care, hospital stays, surgeries, preventive care, and even mental health services.

Reliance Health is particularly popular among young professionals and tech-savvy individuals due to its user-friendly mobile app and digital-first approach. The company’s mission is to make healthcare more affordable and accessible by leveraging technology.

Why Reliance Health?

- Fully digital platform for easy management of health insurance.

- Comprehensive health coverage, including mental health services.

- Affordable and flexible plans for individuals and businesses.

- Quick and hassle-free claims process.

- Focus on wellness and preventive care.

Reliance Health stands out for its innovative use of technology, making health insurance more accessible and convenient for the tech-savvy Nigerian population.

5. Stanbic IBTC Insurance

Stanbic IBTC Insurance, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, is one of Nigeria's leading health insurance companies. The company offers a wide range of health insurance plans designed for individuals, families, and corporate organizations. Their plans cover a broad spectrum of medical services, including inpatient care, outpatient treatment, maternity, dental and optical services, and preventive care.

Stanbic IBTC’s health insurance services are supported by the financial strength and reliability of its parent company, Stanbic IBTC. This gives policyholders the confidence that their healthcare needs will be met with professionalism and efficiency.

Why Stanbic IBTC Insurance?

- Backed by the stability and reputation of Stanbic IBTC Holdings.

- Comprehensive coverage for both individuals and families.

- Excellent customer service and claims processing.

- Wide network of healthcare providers.

- Focus on both medical treatment and wellness.

Stanbic IBTC Insurance is known for offering reliable and efficient health insurance plans backed by the financial strength of one of Nigeria’s most trusted financial institutions.

6. Halogen Health Insurance

Halogen Health Insurance is a leading provider of affordable health insurance in Nigeria. The company offers a wide range of health insurance plans, including individual health coverage, family plans, and corporate health schemes. Their services include inpatient and outpatient care, medical evacuations, surgeries, and wellness checkups.

Halogen Health Insurance places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and provides flexible payment options to make healthcare more accessible. They also offer tailored corporate health plans that meet the specific needs of businesses and organizations.

Why Halogen Health Insurance?

- Affordable and flexible health insurance plans.

- Comprehensive coverage for a wide range of health services.

- Focus on customer satisfaction and responsive service.

- Corporate health plans tailored to businesses’ needs.

- Wide network of healthcare providers across Nigeria.

Halogen Health Insurance has earned a reputation for its affordability and excellent customer service, making it an ideal choice for both individuals and companies seeking dependable health coverage.

7. MedPlus Health Insurance

MedPlus Health Insurance is known for offering excellent health insurance plans with an emphasis on preventive care and wellness. MedPlus offers comprehensive health coverage that includes hospitalization, outpatient care, dental and optical services, and emergency evacuation. 

MedPlus is also known for its focus on wellness, offering programs and services that help customers maintain healthy lifestyles. Their plans are designed to be flexible and cater to a wide range of customers, from individuals to corporate groups.

Why MedPlus Health Insurance?

- Comprehensive health plans covering a wide range of medical services.

- Emphasis on wellness and preventive care.

- Affordable and flexible plans for individuals and businesses.

- Efficient claims handling and customer service.

- A strong network of healthcare providers.

MedPlus is an excellent choice for individuals looking for health coverage that prioritizes both treatment and preventive care.

 8. Medisure Health Insurance

Medisure Health Insurance is one of Nigeria’s leading health insurance companies, offering a variety of health plans to meet the needs of individuals, families, and organizations. Their products include inpatient and outpatient care, maternity benefits, preventive health services, and more.

Medisure has a strong network of hospitals and healthcare providers across Nigeria, ensuring that their clients have access to top-quality medical services. Their focus on customer satisfaction and efficient claims processing has earned them a loyal customer base.

Why Medisure Health Insurance?

- A wide range of health insurance products for different needs.

- Efficient claims processing and customer service.

- Extensive network of hospitals and healthcare providers.

- Affordable and flexible plans for individuals and businesses.

- Comprehensive coverage, including maternity and preventive care.

Medisure Health Insurance stands out for its commitment to providing affordable and comprehensive health insurance solutions.

 9. FirstCare Health Insurance

FirstCare Health Insurance offers a variety of health plans designed to meet the needs of Nigerians at different life stages. The company’s offerings include individual health insurance, family plans, and corporate schemes. Their plans cover medical expenses, hospitalization, outpatient care, and preventive services.

FirstCare Health Insurance is known for its affordable pricing and its dedication to delivering exceptional healthcare services to its clients. The company’s extensive network of hospitals ensures that customers have access to high-quality healthcare when needed.

Why FirstCare Health Insurance?

- Affordable health insurance plans that cater to different needs.

- A broad network of hospitals and healthcare providers.

- Comprehensive coverage, including maternity and preventive care.

- Focus on customer satisfaction and efficient claims processing.

FirstCare Health Insurance is a great option for individuals and families seeking affordable health coverage in Nigeria.

10. Providus Health Insurance

Providus Health Insurance provides a wide range of health insurance products tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals and businesses. Their plans cover hospitalization, outpatient care, surgeries, maternity, dental and optical care, and emergency services.

Providus Health Insurance places a strong emphasis on ensuring that its customers have access to quality healthcare. The company is known for its flexible plans, efficient claims handling, and dedication to offering excellent customer service.

Why Providus Health Insurance?

- A wide range of health insurance products with flexible plans.

- Excellent customer service and claims processing.

- Comprehensive coverage, including dental and optical services.

- Strong network of healthcare providers.

Providus Health Insurance is a reliable choice for those seeking comprehensive and flexible health insurance coverage.

Conclusion

Health insurance is an essential tool for securing your health and finances, especially in a country like Nigeria where healthcare costs can be unpredictable. The companies mentioned above offer a wide range of health insurance plans designed to meet the needs of individuals, families, and corporate organizations. From affordable and accessible plans to comprehensive coverage and customer-focused service, these top 10 health insurance providers in Nigeria are committed to helping you protect your health and well-being.

Before selecting a health insurance provider, it is important to assess your specific needs, including your health history, coverage requirements, and budget. With the right health insurance plan, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you have access to quality healthcare when you need it the most.

Choosing the right health insurance company is not just about finding the best price but also ensuring that the provider can deliver on its promises of quality care and excellent customer service. With one of these top 10 health insurance companies, you can rest assured that your health is in good hands.

By Salis Muhd Baqir

In a significant stride towards institutional development, Northwest University Kano (formerly Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano) has received an Approval-in-Principle (AIP) from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for the establishment of a Non-Interest Microfinance Bank. The communication, dated 3rd January 2025, was addressed to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa, marking a notable achievement in the university’s efforts to enhance financial accessibility and support for its community.  

The AIP is a preliminary approval that, upon fulfillment of certain conditions, may lead to the issuance of a final license, allowing the bank to commence operations. This initiative aligns with Professor Kurawa’s developmental mandate for the university, aiming to encourage financial inclusion while adhering to ethical, non-interest banking principles.  

The ownership structure of the proposed Non-Interest Microfinance Bank reflects a collaborative effort involving key stakeholders within the university community. The shares are to be distributed among the following entities: Northwest University Kano, Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), and the University Staff Multipurpose Cooperative Society. 

This diverse shareholding structure shows a unified commitment to the bank's success and the promotion of financial services tailored to the needs of the university's staff and students.  

Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa will serves as the Chairman of the Advisory Committee of Experts (ACE), which will oversees the bank's strategic direction and ensures compliance with non-interest financial principles. The committee includes distinguished members drawn from within and outside the university, reflecting a blend of academic and industry expertise.  

The establishment of the Non-Interest Microfinance Bank is a proof of Professor Kurawa’s visionary leadership and commitment to institutional growth. Under his tenure, the university continues to achieve milestones that enhance its reputation as a hub for academic and socio-economic development.  

While the bank awaits the final licensing stage, this development promises to provide the university community with innovative, Sharia-compliant financial solutions. It also positions the institution as a pioneer in integrating ethical banking practices within the academic sector. This achievement reaffirms Northwest University Kano's dedication to encouraging an environment conducive to growth, collaboration, and community-oriented initiatives.

Abubakar Ibrahim

Head, Public Relations Unit.

For: REGISTRAR